Sena UBT MP Nagesh Ashtikar Joins Shinde Faction, Cites Development Needs

In a significant political development, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Nagesh Ashtikar has publicly confirmed his decision to join the faction led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This marks the first such public confirmation by a rebel MP from the Uddhav Thackeray-led party.

Ashtikar, who is among six Sena UBT MPs reportedly considering a switch, stated that the move was not driven by any personal animosity towards former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Instead, he emphasised the need to secure funds and complete pending development works in his constituency.

"Funds were not being received, and development works were not moving. For the work of the people, going with the ruling side has become necessary," Ashtikar said on Saturday.

The MP added that he had given careful thought to the interests of party workers, supporters, and the general public before arriving at this decision. Several infrastructure projects in his constituency had reportedly stalled due to lack of financial allocation.

The rebellion within the Shiv Sena (UBT) has been brewing for several weeks, with six MPs expressing dissatisfaction over the party's functioning. Ashtikar's confirmation is expected to intensify speculation about the remaining five MPs' next steps.

Political analysts note that the Shinde faction, which is part of the ruling coalition in Maharashtra, has been actively consolidating its position by attracting legislators from the rival UBT camp. The development reflects the ongoing realignment of political forces in the state.

Neither the Shiv Sena (UBT) leadership nor the Shinde faction has issued an official statement on Ashtikar's move as of yet. The MP's decision is seen as a boost to the Shinde government's legislative strength.