The Lok Sabha Speaker’s approval of the merger of rebel SS (UBT) with Shiv Sena (Shinde) has been positively received by Shiv Sena. This move, seen as a blow to Uddhav Thackeray’s faction and a win for progressive politics under Eknath Shinde, was validated under the anti-defection law. The six MPs will now be part of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, distinct from Uddhav Sena.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam emphasized that the Speaker’s decision was in line with the Constitution. He noted that the MPs had the legal right to switch parties with a two-thirds majority, implying no wrongdoing on their part. Criticizing Uddhav Thackeray, Nirupam suggested that the public’s trust in his leadership is waning.
Accusing the party of deviating from its core principles by aligning with opposing ideologies, Nirupam claimed that Shiv Sena had distanced itself from Lord Ram. As the party faces internal challenges, he criticized their sudden invocation of Lord Ram’s name, likening it to hypocrisy. Another Shiv Sena leader, Shaina NC, supported the recognition of the rebel MPs, citing faith in Eknath Shinde’s progressive political approach and urging introspection within SS (UBT).
