Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday claimed that the six dissident Members of Parliament who did not attend a recent party meeting are afraid of public anger and have been in communication with the party leadership. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Raut asserted that the six lawmakers have not formally resigned from the Shiv Sena (UBT), even though their absence from the meeting violated the party whip.
Raut's Statement on Dissident MPs
Raut stated, "Some dissident MPs are scared of public anger. They are in touch with us. They have not said they have quit the Shiv Sena (UBT), though they did not attend the party meeting, thereby violating the whip." He added that the party is monitoring the situation and will take appropriate action as per party discipline.
The six MPs—who represent constituencies across Maharashtra—had skipped a crucial party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray last week, sparking speculation of a rift within the party. Their absence was seen as a sign of dissent, especially after the party's poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections, where the Shiv Sena (UBT) won only nine seats.
Background of the Dissent
The dissident MPs are believed to be unhappy with the party's leadership and its alliance strategy. Sources indicate that some of them have been in touch with the ruling Mahayuti coalition, which includes the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the BJP. However, Raut's remarks suggest that the party is still trying to bring them back into the fold.
Raut dismissed reports of a major split, saying, "This is not a repeat of 2022. The party is united under Uddhav Thackeray's leadership. Those who are unhappy are a handful of individuals who are afraid of the public's reaction." He also warned that any MP who crosses the line will face disciplinary action.
Political Implications
The development comes at a time when the Shiv Sena (UBT) is trying to consolidate its position as the main opposition party in Maharashtra. The party has been critical of the Shinde-led government on issues like Maratha reservation, farmer distress, and unemployment. Any further erosion of its parliamentary strength could weaken its bargaining power in the opposition alliance.
Political analyst Hemant Desai commented, "The Shiv Sena (UBT) cannot afford another split. Raut's statement is an attempt to downplay the dissent and send a signal that the party is still in control. But the fact that these MPs are in touch with the leadership suggests that a compromise may be reached."
The six MPs have not yet responded to Raut's claims. However, sources close to them say they are waiting for the right moment to make their stand clear. Meanwhile, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has welcomed the dissidents with open arms, offering them a platform to serve the people.
Conclusion
As the political drama unfolds, all eyes are on the six MPs and their next move. Whether they return to the Shiv Sena (UBT) or cross over to the ruling coalition will have significant implications for Maharashtra politics. For now, Raut's statement indicates that the party is willing to give them a chance to return, but the clock is ticking.
