Mumbai: None of the six rebel Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs have responded to the show-cause notice issued by the party on June 18 for failing to attend the parliamentary party meeting that day. The party had given them a 24-hour ultimatum to reply. With no response received, and speculation that MP Omraje Nimbalkar has not signed the letter for forming a separate group and is yet to decide on joining Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, the Shiv Sena (UBT) is likely to convene another parliamentary party meeting next week to see if any of the defecting MPs attend.
Disqualification Process Underway
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP and chief whip Anil Desai said the party will follow due process to initiate disqualification of the MPs for defying the party whip and engaging in anti-party activities by speaking against the leadership, which constitutes voluntarily giving up party membership. Desai stated that party chief Uddhav Thackeray will decide on Omraje Nimbalkar soon. Nimbalkar is facing a setback in his father’s murder case, where all accused have been acquitted, leaving his next move uncertain.
Party Chief's Decision Final
Desai emphasized that in Shiv Sena (UBT), the party chief’s decision has always been final and unquestionable. He commented on Nimbalkar’s situation, saying, “Omraje Nimbalkar might be in a state of shock. The kind of justice which has been delivered in his father’s murder case … they have acquitted all the accused and they have given reasons also. It is unfortunate, because Omraje was following it up rigorously. It was a very grave incident as far as his family was concerned. After 20 years, the acquittal has given a very big blow to Omraje’s expectations. Naturally, how he sees it, evaluates it, that is to be seen.”
Grounds for Disqualification
Desai outlined that the MPs can be disqualified on three counts: defying the party whip and not attending the parliamentary party meeting, violating party discipline, and indulging in anti-party activity. He cited the precedent of Sharad Yadav, who was disqualified from the Rajya Sabha under the anti-defection law for appearing on a rival party’s stage. The ruling held that Yadav had voluntarily given up his membership through repeated conduct, public statements, and open alignment with a rival party.
Nimbalkar's Uncertain Stance
Desai added, “Reports suggest Omraje was given some kind of promise which didn’t come to pass. So now at this stage you would understand that he would be in a state of shock. But he would realise who had the affinity, who had the affection, and who gave those promises.” The party’s next parliamentary party meeting will be crucial in determining the fate of the rebel MPs.
