As political uncertainty deepens within Shiv Sena (UBT), party chief Uddhav Thackeray has firmly dismissed speculation about a possible merger with the Congress, declaring that the party founded by Bal Thackeray would continue to maintain its independent identity despite the latest internal challenges.
Speaking at the 60th foundation day celebrations of Shiv Sena in Mumbai, Thackeray used the occasion to send a strong message to party workers and critics, even as reports of unrest among several Lok Sabha MPs continue to dominate Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Uddhav Rejects Merger Speculation
Addressing party supporters, Thackeray made it clear that Shiv Sena was created with a distinct political mission and was never meant to be absorbed into another organisation.
He asserted that the party’s core principles, including its commitment to Marathi pride and Hindutva, remain unchanged. His remarks were widely seen as a response to claims from rebel leaders who have reportedly questioned the party’s growing proximity to the Congress.
According to political observers, concerns over the party’s future direction have emerged as one of the key issues behind the latest signs of dissent within the organisation.
Six MPs Missing, Questions Grow
The controversy intensified after six of Shiv Sena (UBT)’s nine Lok Sabha MPs failed to attend a crucial parliamentary party meeting in New Delhi. Their absence triggered speculation about possible defections and renewed fears of another major split within the party.
The development has revived memories of the 2022 rebellion led by Eknath Shinde, which dramatically altered Maharashtra’s political landscape and divided the Shiv Sena into rival factions.
Party leaders are now closely monitoring the situation as uncertainty continues over the future political moves of the absent MPs.
Emotional Appeal to Party Workers
During his address, Thackeray struck an emotional tone and acknowledged the disappointment felt by party supporters over recent political developments.
He expressed gratitude to loyal Shiv Sainiks who have continued to stand by the party through years of political turmoil and insisted that the organisation’s strength comes from its grassroots workers rather than individual leaders.
The former chief minister also indicated that leadership positions are secondary to the larger cause of protecting the party’s ideology and legacy.
Attack on BJP and Shinde Camp
Thackeray used the platform to launch a fresh attack on the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, accusing them of attempting to weaken the original party through political engineering.
He argued that despite decades of alliance politics, Shiv Sena had retained its independent identity and questioned claims that it would now seek a merger with another political party.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) chief also warned that frequent defections and political realignments were undermining public trust in the democratic process.
Battle for Shiv Sena Enters New Phase
With tensions rising and speculation over another rebellion refusing to die down, the battle between the rival Shiv Sena factions appears far from over.
