Political Storm Intensifies in Maharashtra
Amid growing speculation of a possible split within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction and the reported buzz around “Operation Tiger,” party chief Uddhav Thackeray has called an urgent meeting in New Delhi on Thursday.
The crucial parliamentary meeting is scheduled for around 11 am at the party’s parliamentary office, with the main objective of preventing further defections and keeping the faction united.
Rebel MPs Meet Speaker, Claim Majority Support
Tensions escalated after a group of rebel MPs met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, claiming support of six out of nine UBT MPs in the Lower House.
This development has intensified political uncertainty, with reports suggesting that some MPs may be preparing to shift allegiance to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction.
Three-Line Whip Issued to Control Situation
In response, the UBT leadership has issued a strict three-line whip directing all Lok Sabha MPs to attend the parliamentary meeting in Delhi without exception.
Party sources indicate the move is aimed at preventing last-minute defections and reinforcing internal discipline at a critical political moment.
Possible Shift Could Alter Parliamentary Balance
If even a section of UBT MPs joins the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the numerical strength of the faction in the Lok Sabha could increase significantly.
The Shinde faction currently holds five MPs, and additional support could strengthen its position further in Parliament.
Under anti-defection law, a breakaway group would need support from at least two-thirds of the party’s MPs to avoid disqualification.
UBT Leaders Push Back Against Claims
Earlier, UBT leaders met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and submitted a formal representation urging him to prevent any unlawful defection attempts.
Senior leader Sanjay Raut alleged that certain MPs were being offered large financial inducements, reportedly around ₹50 crore, to switch sides, though no official evidence was provided.
Raut also stated that the Speaker has assured careful consideration of all legal aspects before taking any action on such claims.
Legal Position on Merger Rules Explained
Another senior leader, Anil Desai, clarified that even if a group claims two-thirds support, it cannot automatically merge with another party under parliamentary rules.
He emphasized that only the original party structure has the authority to approve a merger, while the final discretion rests with the Speaker.
Desai added that numerical strength alone does not guarantee recognition unless all legal procedures under anti-defection laws are satisfied.
Political Uncertainty Continues in Maharashtra
With competing claims and rising tensions, Maharashtra’s political landscape appears increasingly unstable. Thursday’s meeting in Delhi is now seen as a crucial moment that could decide the future strength and unity of the UBT faction in Parliament.
