Major Setback For Uddhav Thackeray As Speaker Recognises Merger Of Six MPs With Shinde Camp

Indian politics witnessed a landmark development where Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla accepted the merger of six MPs belonging to Uddhav Thackeray led Shiv Sena (UBT) with Eknath Sinde led Shiv Sena. This is a big boost to Eknath Shinde.

The acceptance of merger came after these six MPs approached the Lok Sabha Secretariat for the same.

Speaker Approves Merger Request

It all started after the six rebel MPs had submitted an application requesting that they be recognised as members of the Shiv Sena led by Sinde. Examining the request, Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla approved the application. The approval gives formal parliamentary recognition to the merger and changes the status of these MPs in the Lower House.

#WATCH | Mumbai: On NDA, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde says, "No matter how much ill-will they (opposition parties) try to generate, our (Shiv Sena and BJP) mutual goodwill will always endure. Our friendship is not based on the pursuit of office or power... but… pic.twitter.com/lELpECfoPU

— ANI (@ANI) July 18, 2026

Major Boost for Eknath Shinde

Om Birla's major boost strengthens the position of Eknath Shinde led Shiv Sena emerging as the recognised faction following the party's split. The move is expected to enhance the Shinde faction's parliamentary strength and political standing.

Setback for Uddhav Thackeray Camp

However, for Uddhav Thackeray led Shiv Sena (UBT) the development comes as another setback. The party has already been dealing with political challenges since the split that divided the Shiv Sena into two fractions.

As the speaker's approval, the merger of the six MPs are now official and will be recognised as Shiv Sena led Shinde.