Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Eknath Shinde on Friday dismissed reports that MPs of the Shiv Sena (UBT) would join his party, terming them baseless, PTI reported.
In a statement, Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, said reports about a purported meeting between him and Sena (UBT) MPs were “mischievous”.
Rumours meant to create sensation: Deputy CM Shinde
“Rumours are being spread that Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs will split and join the Shiv Sena. These rumours are baseless. The only purpose is to create sensation,” Shinde said.
Speculation over ‘secret meeting’ in Thane
His statement came amid reports that he had held a secret meeting with Sena (UBT) MPs in Thane. There has been speculation that a section of Sena (UBT) may split and join the Shinde-led faction.
Current strength of Sena (UBT) in Parliament
The Sena (UBT) currently has 10 Members of Parliament (MPs), including nine in the Lok Sabha and one in the Rajya Sabha.
Background: 2022 Shiv Sena split
In 2022, Shinde led a rebellion within the Bal Thackeray-founded Shiv Sena, breaking away from the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray along with a group of MLAs. He subsequently secured control of the party name and its bow-and-arrow symbol.
Rival alliances in Maharashtra politics
While Shinde’s Shiv Sena is a part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the state, Uddhav Thackeray’s Sena (UBT) is a constituent of the opposition bloc Maha Vikas Aghadi.
Shiv Sena kicks off early Lok Sabha poll strategy, names 48 constituency heads
With a clear focus on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Shiv Sena has initiated early groundwork by announcing a comprehensive organisational strategy across Maharashtra. Acting on the directives of party chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the party has appointed contact heads for all 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state.
Strategic Push in Mumbai and Thane
In a significant move, the party has entrusted major responsibility to Shiv Sena Parliamentary Party leader Dr Shrikant Shinde. He has been appointed as the contact head for all six Lok Sabha constituencies in Mumbai – Mumbai North, Mumbai North West, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai South Central, North East Mumbai, and South Mumbai – along with the crucial Thane constituency.
To strengthen coordination and grassroots outreach, Dr Shinde will be supported by Minister Yogesh Kadam, MLA Nilesh Rane, and former MP Rahul Shewale. This team is expected to streamline campaign efforts and enhance voter engagement in these politically significant regions.
(With PTI inputs)
