Shiv Sena Meeting in Delhi Sees Absence of Rebel MPs Amid Allegations of Party Defections
In a significant political development, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) held a parliamentary meeting in Delhi, but none of the six rebel MPs attended, raising questions about party loyalty. Allegations surfaced that several MPs have defected to Eknath Shinde's faction, prompting concerns from Congress leaders about the implications for democracy in India. As discussions unfold, the political landscape in Maharashtra appears increasingly tumultuous, with potential ramifications for the broader national context. This article delves into the details of the meeting and the reactions from various political figures.
| Jun 18, 2026, 12:32 IST
Rebel MPs Skip Crucial Shiv Sena Meeting
During a parliamentary meeting convened by the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) in Delhi, none of the six rebel MPs attended, despite a 'whip' being issued. Currently, the Uddhav Thackeray faction holds a total of nine MPs in the Lok Sabha. Only three Lok Sabha members—Anil Desai, Arvind Sawant, and Rajabhau Waje from Nashik—were present at this significant gathering, along with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut.
Claims of Defections to Shinde's Party
Six UBT Leaders Allegedly Join Shinde's Camp: Shiv Sena MLC
Shiv Sena MLA Chandrakant Raghuvanshi has asserted that six out of the nine Lok Sabha members from Uddhav's faction have already defected to Eknath Shinde's party. Speaking to reporters, he suggested that any leader wishing to serve the public should align with the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) coalition. According to reports, he stated that 'Operation Tiger' has taken place in Maharashtra. Today, six MPs expressed their trust in Eknath Shinde and joined our ranks... It is a positive development that they have come back to us. I welcome them.
Impact of Defections on Uddhav's Faction
Is Uddhav's Faction Facing a Setback?
Sources indicate that six of the nine Lok Sabha members—Sanjay Jadhav, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, Omraje Nimbalkar, Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Deshmukh, and Nagesh Patil Ashtikar—did not attend the parliamentary meeting held in New Delhi on Thursday.
Concerns Over Democracy Amid Political Turmoil
Congress Leader Warns of National Impact from Operation Tiger
In light of the discussions surrounding the rift within the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe Patil remarked on Thursday that the repercussions of Operation Tiger will affect the entire nation. He criticized the Supreme Court for not taking cognizance of the matter, warning that it could lead to national division. He stated to the media, 'First, they break the party, then they form a new one, and subsequently seize election symbols, seats, and votes. The public is witnessing all of this... When issues like inflation, unemployment, women's oppression, and farmers' struggles are not being addressed, the consequences will inevitably follow.'