Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has taken strict action against six rebel Lok Sabha members, initiating the process to seek their disqualification from Parliament. The party considers the absence of these MPs at a crucial parliamentary party meeting in Delhi as a clear defiance of the whip issued by the party leadership.
Rebel MPs Defy Party Whip
The six MPs, who are aligned with the Eknath Shinde faction, failed to attend the meeting called by the Shiv Sena (UBT) in the national capital. The party had issued a whip directing all its Lok Sabha members to be present, but the rebels chose to stay away, prompting Thackeray to crack the whip.
Disqualification Process Begins
Sources within the party confirmed that the Shiv Sena (UBT) has formally approached the Lok Sabha Speaker, seeking disqualification of the six MPs under the anti-defection law. The party argues that the absence at the parliamentary party meeting amounts to voluntarily giving up membership of the party, which is a ground for disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution.
This move is seen as a significant escalation in the ongoing political battle between the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction and the Eknath Shinde group. The rebel MPs have been at loggerheads with the party leadership since the split in June 2022, and this latest action could further deepen the rift.
Political Implications
Political analysts believe that the disqualification move could have far-reaching implications for Maharashtra politics. If the Speaker accepts the petition, the six seats could fall vacant, triggering by-elections. This could alter the power dynamics in the state, where both factions are vying for control of the Shiv Sena's legacy.
Meanwhile, the Shinde faction has dismissed the disqualification notice as a desperate attempt by Thackeray to retain relevance. They have vowed to challenge any such move legally. The coming weeks are likely to witness intense political and legal battles as both sides prepare for a showdown.
Next Steps
The Lok Sabha Speaker is expected to examine the petition and seek a response from the six MPs before making a decision. The process could take several weeks, during which the MPs will have the opportunity to present their side of the story. If disqualified, they will be barred from contesting elections until the end of the current Lok Sabha term.
