Shiv Sena UBT Cracks Deepen as Raut Announces Action Against Absent MPs
The internal turmoil within Shiv Sena UBT intensified on Thursday after senior leader Sanjay Raut announced disciplinary action against party MPs who failed to attend the parliamentary party meeting in Delhi.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Raut indicated that the absence of several MPs would not be taken lightly and that the party leadership had already begun the process of seeking explanations from those who skipped the gathering.
Show-Cause Notices to Be Issued
Raut revealed that only three Lok Sabha MPs attended the meeting and said the party considered the absence of others a violation of the whip issued by the leadership.
“Three Lok Sabha MPs attended the meeting – Arvind Sawant, Rajabhau Waje and Anil Desai. I am from Rajya Sabha. The MPs who did not attend it are found to be in violation of party whip. So, action has been initiated. They will be served showcause notice and response will be sought from them,” he said.
He further indicated that the party may pursue stronger measures against the absent lawmakers.
“We will look towards the cancellation of their membership,” Raut added.
Raut Questions Claims About Meeting With Speaker
Amid reports that a group of MPs may have held discussions with the Lok Sabha Speaker, Raut challenged those claims and demanded proof.
“When we met the Speaker yesterday, a photo came out in public domain. If the other 6 MPs met the Speaker, show us a photo of the same,” he said.
His remarks came as speculation continued over possible efforts by some MPs to seek a separate identity within Parliament.
“This Is Not Strategy, This Is Betrayal”
Launching a direct attack on the leaders suspected of distancing themselves from the party, Raut accused them of betraying the organisation that helped them secure electoral victories.
“This is not called strategy, this is betrayal. They are still the members of our party and won on our symbol. If they have violated the party whip, they will have to face legal action,” he said.
The comments underscore the growing tensions within the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction as questions emerge over the loyalty of several elected representatives.
BJP Also Comes Under Fire
Raut also targeted the BJP, accusing it of contributing to political instability and encouraging defections in Maharashtra.
“BJP has dirtied country’s politics, especially in Maharashtra, and they will have to pay a price,” he said.
