Members of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) have officially joined the Shiv Sena faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, marking another major shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
The move significantly strengthens the Shinde-led faction in Parliament and signals continuing challenges for the camp headed by Uddhav Thackeray.
Shrikant Shinde Hints at More Political Developments
Speaking after the induction of the six MPs, Shrikant Shinde suggested that more political surprises could be on the way.
According to Shrikant Shinde, political “explosions” would continue, adding that his camp has been creating major political shocks over the past four years. He also remarked that the latest development was only the beginning, saying the larger political picture is yet to unfold.
Addressing the media, he noted that the day had already produced significant political headlines and hinted that additional developments could emerge in the coming days.
Six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs Join Shinde Faction
The six MPs who joined the Shinde-led Shiv Sena are:
- Sanjay Dina Patil
- Sanjay Deshmukh
- Sanjay Jadhav
- Bhausaheb Wakchaure
- Nagesh Patil Ashtikar
- Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar
Their induction increases the Shinde faction’s strength in the Lok Sabha from seven MPs to thirteen, further consolidating its position within Maharashtra politics.
Eknath Shinde Calls It the ‘Second Phase’
Welcoming the MPs, Eknath Shinde described the move as the “second phase” of the political realignment that began with his dramatic rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray in 2022.
Shinde stated that all formal procedures had been completed and that the MPs had voluntarily joined his faction. He reiterated that his group represents the ideological legacy of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray.
The Deputy Chief Minister also characterized the development as a major victory for his camp, saying the effort was aimed at preserving Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision and principles.
Signs of Defection Emerged Earlier
Speculation about the MPs’ switch had intensified after the six leaders skipped the Shiv Sena (UBT) parliamentary party meeting in New Delhi on June 17.
Among them, Nagesh Patil-Ashtikar and Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar had publicly indicated their intention to join the Shinde-led faction.
Senior Shiv Sena leader Pratap Sarnaik said the MPs were impressed by the leadership and work of Eknath Shinde and Shrikant Shinde, and had chosen to align themselves with the party’s current direction.
What This Means for Maharashtra Politics
The latest defections represent another setback for Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT), which has been battling internal divisions since the 2022 split. With the Shinde faction expanding its parliamentary strength, political observers will be closely watching whether additional leaders make similar moves in the coming weeks.
Shrikant Shinde’s remarks have further fueled speculation that more political realignments could be on the horizon, potentially reshaping Maharashtra’s opposition landscape ahead of future elections.
