Om Birla Clears Merger Under Anti-Defection Provisions
In a significant political development ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has officially recognised the merger of six former Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs with the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The decision formally acknowledges their shift in the Lok Sabha and further alters the party’s parliamentary strength.
The approval comes after the six MPs switched allegiance to the Shinde camp last month, bringing the faction’s total strength in the Lok Sabha to 13 members.
Recognition Strengthens Shinde Camp in Parliament
The Speaker’s decision gives official parliamentary recognition to the MPs as members of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena under the provisions governing defections and mergers. The development comes just before Parliament convenes for the Monsoon Session, where several important legislative issues are expected to be discussed.
Political observers believe the move strengthens the Shinde faction’s position within the Lok Sabha while adding another chapter to the continuing political rivalry between the two Shiv Sena factions.
Six MPs Who Joined the Shinde-Led Shiv Sena
The MPs recognised as members of the Shinde faction are:
- Sanjay Dina Patil (Mumbai North East)
- Omprakash Rajenimbalkar (Dharashiv)
- Sanjay Deshmukh (Yavatmal-Washim)
- Sanjay Jadhav (Parbhani)
- Bhausaheb Wakchaure (Shirdi)
- Nagesh Patil Ashtikar (Hingoli)
They had left the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and joined Eknath Shinde’s party on June 22.
Separate Recognition for Rebel TMC MPs
Apart from the Shiv Sena development, the Speaker also approved separate seating arrangements for 20 rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs who are now associated with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI). The decision has already triggered protests from Opposition parties, which have questioned the status of the rebel lawmakers.
Political Battle Between Sena Factions Continues
The latest parliamentary recognition is expected to have political significance as the battle between the Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde camps continues. Since the split in 2022, both factions have remained locked in legal and political disputes over the party’s leadership, organisation, and identity.
With the Monsoon Session set to begin, the Speaker’s decision is likely to remain at the centre of political debate inside and outside Parliament.
