Two UBT MPs defect to Shinde-led Shiv Sena
In a significant setback for Uddhav Thackeray, at least two of the six dissident Lok Sabha MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) confirmed on Sunday that they have switched allegiance to the faction led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This development raises fresh questions about Thackeray's ability to maintain party unity ahead of future political battles.
Dissident MPs join Shinde camp
The two MPs, whose identities have not been officially disclosed, are part of a group of six parliamentarians who had been in rebellion against Thackeray's leadership. Their defection brings the total number of UBT MPs who have joined Shinde's Shiv Sena to at least two, with speculation that more may follow.
This move is seen as a direct challenge to Thackeray's authority, as he has been struggling to keep his faction intact after the split in 2022. The Shinde faction currently holds the majority of the party's legislative strength, including the support of most MLAs and several MPs.
CJP protests over NEET paper leak
Separately, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Sunday called on farmer groups to join its demonstration over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak. Founder Abhijeet Dipke stated that the protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar will continue on Monday and is expected to draw larger participation.
The CJP has been vocal about the need for a thorough investigation into the NEET paper leak, which has sparked widespread outrage among students and parents. Dipke urged the government to take immediate action to ensure transparency in the examination process.
Political implications
The defection of the two UBT MPs is likely to weaken Thackeray's position within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, which includes the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party. It also underscores the ongoing rift within the Shiv Sena, which split after Shinde led a rebellion against Thackeray in June 2022.
Political analysts believe that the defections could embolden other dissident MPs to follow suit, potentially reducing Thackeray's influence in the Lok Sabha. The UBT faction currently has 18 MPs in the lower house, but the loss of even a few could impact its bargaining power.
Meanwhile, the CJP's protest highlights growing civil society concerns over the integrity of competitive exams. The NEET paper leak is one of several irregularities reported in recent years, prompting calls for stricter oversight and accountability.
