Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to seek disqualification of six MPs
Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs are scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on 24 June 2026, according to party sources. The delegation is expected to formally request the disqualification of six MPs under the Anti-Defection Law, citing their alleged defection to the rival Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Background of the political split
The Shiv Sena split in June 2022 when Shinde, along with a majority of MLAs, rebelled against then-party chief Uddhav Thackeray, leading to the formation of a new government with the BJP. The split extended to Parliament, where 12 of the 18 Shiv Sena MPs aligned with Shinde. The Election Commission recognized the Shinde faction as the official Shiv Sena in February 2023, awarding it the party symbol. However, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction has challenged this decision in court.
Anti-Defection Law provisions
The Anti-Defection Law, enshrined in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, allows for the disqualification of legislators who voluntarily give up membership of their political party or vote against party directives. The Uddhav faction argues that the six MPs, elected on Shiv Sena tickets, have defected by supporting the Shinde government and recognizing the rival faction.
Previous disqualification petitions
In 2023, the Uddhav faction had filed a similar petition seeking disqualification of 12 MPs, but the Speaker did not take action. The current petition focuses on six MPs who, according to the Uddhav faction, have openly aligned with the Shinde faction. The meeting with Speaker Birla is seen as a last-ditch effort to press the matter before the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament.
Political implications
The disqualification move is part of a broader legal and political battle between the two Shiv Sena factions. The Uddhav faction has been fighting to retain control over party assets and symbols. A successful disqualification could weaken the Shinde faction's numerical strength in Parliament, though it remains uncertain whether the Speaker will act on the petition.
