Potential Split in Shiv Sena (UBT) as Legislators Prepare to Depart

Shiv Sena (UBT) is reportedly facing a potential split, with 14 to 16 legislators and six MPs considering leaving the party led by Uddhav Thackeray. This development follows rumors of an 'Operation Tiger' that has raised concerns about defections to the rival faction led by Eknath Shinde. Amidst growing speculation, Thackeray convened a meeting with party MPs to assess the situation. Sanjay Nirupam has predicted that the UBT faction could dissolve by 2029 due to diminishing trust in its leadership. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Minister Ashish Jaiswal has refrained from commenting on the internal matters of the party, emphasizing the need for formal decisions before discussions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 16, 2026, 14:57 IST

Shiv Sena (UBT) Faces Possible Defection

Reports indicate that a significant split may be on the horizon for Shiv Sena (UBT), with sources suggesting that between 14 to 16 legislators and six MPs are contemplating leaving the party led by Uddhav Thackeray. This potential defection could occur within the next six to seven days, marking another setback for Thackeray following the rebellion in 2022 that dramatically altered Maharashtra's political landscape.

Political Tensions Rise Amid Speculations

This development comes on the heels of ongoing political discussions surrounding the Trinamool Congress, shifting the focus to Shiv Sena (UBT). Rumors of an "Operation Tiger" have sparked concerns within the party that some of its MPs might join the rival faction led by Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The situation escalated to the point where Uddhav Thackeray convened a meeting with all nine Lok Sabha MPs of Shiv Sena (UBT) at his residence, 'Matoshree', to assess the party's strength and address the growing rumors of a split. However, this meeting quickly became a topic of speculation across the state.

Concerns Over Party's Future

On June 16, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam expressed concerns that the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction could dissolve by 2029, citing reports that several MPs may align with Eknath Shinde's group. Discussing the 'Operation Tiger' issue, Nirupam noted a diminishing trust among leaders and workers in the UBT leadership. He stated that the party is gradually fading away, with members losing faith in its leadership. He predicted that by 2029, the party would cease to exist, as individuals continue to leave UBT. Regarding the MPs, he mentioned that it is an internal matter for their party.

Official Comments on the Situation

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Minister Ashish Jaiswal refrained from making direct comments on the developments within Shiv Sena (UBT). He emphasized that any discussions regarding the political future of the party's MPs should occur only after formal decisions are made. Jaiswal remarked that it would not be appropriate for him to comment on the ongoing situation within Shiv Sena (UBT). He added that if members believe that Balasaheb's legacy lies with Eknath Shinde and they make decisions based on their constituencies and political futures, then it would be appropriate to discuss the matter afterward. He noted that their actions would be determined by the history and rules of the anti-defection law.

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