Shiv Sena (UBT) Issues Whip to Lok Sabha MPs Amid Speculation of Split

Mumbai/Delhi: Amid reports of a possible realignment within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), the party has issued a whip to all its Lok Sabha members, asking them to attend a parliamentary party meeting scheduled for Thursday. The move comes as speculation mounts that some MPs may consider approaching Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for separate recognition, potentially indicating a split within the nine-member parliamentary group.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led faction, which currently has nine MPs in the lower house, has been facing internal challenges since the split in the Shiv Sena in 2022, when a majority of its legislators sided with Eknath Shinde. While the Shinde faction is recognised by the Election Commission as the official Shiv Sena, the UBT faction has been contesting this in court, retaining its own organisational structure and symbol—the flaming torch.

Party leader and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Desai addressed the media in Delhi, stating that at a meeting held on June 14, all MPs had reaffirmed their loyalty to the party. "We are aware of the media and social media reports, but our MPs have expressed their full support. However, we remain vigilant," Desai said. He also confirmed that the party has submitted a memorandum to the Speaker's office, although he did not disclose its contents.

According to parliamentary rules, a whip is a directive issued by a political party to its members to ensure their presence and adherence to the party line during voting. Failure to comply can lead to disqualification under anti-defection laws. The issuance of a whip at this juncture suggests an effort by the UBT leadership to consolidate its parliamentary strength and deter any potential defections.

Political analysts note that the Shiv Sena's internal dynamics have been fluid since the 2022 vertical split. The Shinde faction, which commands a majority in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, has been trying to expand its influence in the Lok Sabha as well. If a significant number of UBT MPs choose to switch sides, it could alter the balance not only within the party but also in the larger opposition bloc.

The speculation about the MPs approaching the Speaker gained traction after certain media outlets reported, citing unnamed sources, that six of the nine MPs were exploring options for separate recognition. No MP has publicly confirmed such a move, and the UBT leadership has dismissed the reports as "attempts to create confusion."

Desai emphasised that Thursday's meeting will serve as a platform to discuss parliamentary strategies and dispel any misunderstandings. "We are a disciplined party. Everyone will be present. There is no dissidence," he asserted.

The development occurs at a time when the opposition coalition, of which the UBT is a part, is looking to maintain cohesion ahead of crucial parliamentary debates. The party's ability to keep its house in order is being closely watched by allies and adversaries alike.