Shiv Sena (UBT) Serves Show-Cause Notices to Rebel MPs, Threatens Disqualification

Shiv Sena (UBT) has issued fresh show-cause notices to MPs who failed to attend a recent party meeting, warning them that they could face disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law if they fail to explain their absence.

In a stern communication sent on Saturday, the party's Lok Sabha Chief Whip, Anil Desai, asked the absent MPs to explain their conduct within 24 hours. The leadership has made it clear that failure to respond could invite serious consequences, including proceedings under the Anti-Defection Law.

According to the notice, the party may interpret non-compliance as a voluntary decision by the MPs to sever ties with Shiv Sena (UBT). Such a move could pave the way for action under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with disqualification on grounds of defection.

The development comes against the backdrop of renewed speculation about unrest within the Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit. Political observers have been closely watching developments after reports emerged of a possible breakaway group within the party, triggering what some leaders have described as "Operation Tiger".

The rumours gathered pace after six of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs failed to attend a key parliamentary meeting convened by the leadership. Those absent included Nagesh Aashtikar, Sanjay Deshmukh, Sanjay Jadhav, Sanjay Dina Patil, Omprakash Rajenimbalkar and Bhausaheb Wakchaure.

Meanwhile, senior leaders Arvind Sawant, Anil Desai, Rajabhau Waje and Sanjay Raut were present at the meeting, signalling their support for the party's central leadership.

The latest episode has revived concerns about unity within Shiv Sena (UBT), which has been struggling to consolidate its position since the dramatic split in 2022 that saw Eknath Shinde lead a large section of legislators away from the party.

Amid the emerging crisis, Uddhav Thackeray struck an emotional note while addressing party workers during the organisation's 60th foundation day celebrations in Mumbai on Friday.

Seeking to reassure supporters, Thackeray said he was willing to relinquish the party presidency if members believed he no longer deserved their confidence.

"If you feel I have lost your trust, I am prepared to step down from the post of party chief," he told party workers, while urging them to remain united.

His remarks are being viewed as an attempt to quell discontent and prevent another exodus from the party ranks as Shiv Sena (UBT) confronts one of its most significant internal challenges since the original split.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday dropped a cryptic post on social media, even as speculation swirled over the possible defection of six Lok Sabha MPs to the Eknath Shinde-led faction.

Raut shared an image bearing the Hindi words, "Kuch log kuttey toh hotey hain, lekin wafa'daar nahi hotey" ("Some people may be dogs, but they are not loyal"), adding the caption: "Jai Maharashtra!"