In a major political development in Maharashtra, six of the nine MPs belonging to the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) faction of the Shiv Sena are set
to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday, amid indications that they may formally align with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The MPs expected to meet the Speaker are Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Jadhav, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Ashtikar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure and Rajabhau Waje. According to sources, Eknath Shinde and along with his son, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, are also likely to accompany the lawmakers during the meeting. Ahead of the crucial interaction with the Lok Sabha Speaker, a strategy meeting has been scheduled at Shrikant Shinde's residence, where the leaders are expected to discuss the roadmap for the proposed political shift and its implications in Parliament.
Another Blow To Uddhav's Sena?
The move, if formalised, would give a significant blow to Uddhav Thackeray's faction and further strengthen Eknath Shinde's position. The development comes amid continuing political realignments in Maharashtra.While there has been no official confirmation from the MPs, sources indicated that the meeting with the Speaker could pave the way for their formal induction into the Shinde camp and recognition of the shift within parliamentary records.
Notably, the defection might occur ahead of June 19, the foundation day of Shiv Sena. The move is being speculated to be in similar pattern as the Trinamool Congress breakdown in West Bengal.
