• Source:JND

The buzz over a potential split within Shiv Sena (UBT) is growing even after persistent claims by party leader Sanjay Raut about everything being fine. Reports suggest that some Lok Sabha MPs of UBT are likely to join Shiv Sena, led by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.

On Sunday, Uddhav called a meeting of all Lok Sabha MPs at his residence, Matoshree. Soon after, UBT leaders were seen rejecting internal rift and asserting unity. However, only 4 of the 9 Lok Sabha MPs reached the meeting.

This sparked a new political storm, and speculation of defections intensified. Although UBT claimed the other 5 MPs joined virtually, their claim fell short in quelling the buzz and intensified it further.

MP skips Uddhav's huddle to meet Shinde camp minister 

There are also reports that five Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs are taking a different path. While Uddhav was meeting with MPs at Matoshree, party MP Sanjay Deshmukh met with Pratap Rao Jadhav, a minister from the Eknath Shinde camp, in Delhi.

Meanwhile, leaders of the Shinde faction claim that several of Uddhav Thackeray's MPs may join their camp before the monsoon session. Union Minister Pratap Rao Jadhav and Shiv Sena MLC Kripal Tumane have openly stated that negotiations with seven Lok Sabha MPs are in the final stages.

ALSO READ: Uddhav Sena Split Buzz Intensifies As Shinde Camp Claims 7 Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs May Switch Sides Before Monsoon Session

According to Tumane, there are indications that 16 MLAs are also in contact. Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray MP Sanjay Deshmukh's meeting with a minister from the Shinde camp in Delhi also made headlines.

Another 2022 like split in making?

This entire development is also being seen as a repeat of 2022, when Eknath Shinde rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray and seized power. Under the two-thirds majority rule (at least six MPs) in the Lok Sabha, six or more MPs can avoid disqualification if they dissent.

ALSO READ: Shiv Sena UBT Split Buzz: Only 4 MPs Turn Up Physically At Uddhav Thackeray's Key Meet At Matoshree

Direct communication has been initiated with MPs who appear disgruntled or in suspense. Party Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut, while asserting the integrity of all MPs, said the Shinde faction's claims were baseless. He warned that the Shiv Sena UBT would soon launch "Operation Wolf," targeting MLAs and MPs from the Shinde faction.


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