Shiv Sena UBT Crisis: Six Rebel MPs Join Shinde-Led Sena in Major Setback for Uddhav Thackeray

June 22, 2026

In a significant political development in Maharashtra, six Members of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) formally joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction on Monday, dealing a major blow to former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. The move marks the latest chapter in the ongoing battle for control of the party founded by Bal Thackeray and further strengthens Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s position within Maharashtra politics.

The defections come amid months of speculation over growing discontent within the Uddhav Thackeray camp and are expected to reshape political equations ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

Six MPs Switch Allegiance

The rebel MPs officially aligned themselves with the Shinde-led faction, which is recognized by the Election Commission as the official Shiv Sena. Their decision significantly boosts the Shinde camp’s strength in Parliament and adds to the political challenges facing the Shiv Sena (UBT).

The leaders reportedly cited organizational concerns and the need to strengthen the party’s future prospects as reasons for their decision. The development is being viewed as one of the most significant setbacks for the Uddhav camp since the original split in Shiv Sena in 2022.

Aditya Thackeray Alleges Betrayal

Reacting strongly to the defections, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray accused the rebel MPs of betraying the trust of party workers and voters. He alleged that political pressure and personal ambitions were behind the move and asserted that those leaving the party had abandoned the ideals on which Shiv Sena was built.

Aditya maintained that the party would continue to fight despite repeated attempts to weaken its organization. He also expressed confidence that dedicated workers and supporters would remain loyal to the Thackeray leadership.

Shinde Camp Celebrates Expansion

The Shinde faction welcomed the new entrants, describing the move as evidence of growing confidence in its leadership. Party leaders claimed that more elected representatives and workers are likely to join the camp in the coming months.

Supporters of the Shinde-led Sena argued that the latest defections demonstrate acceptance of the party’s current direction and its alliance with the ruling coalition. They maintained that the faction continues to gain support across Maharashtra.

Impact on Maharashtra Politics

Political observers believe the defections could have significant implications for Maharashtra’s political landscape. The addition of six MPs further consolidates Shinde’s influence and may affect future alliance negotiations and electoral strategies.

For Shiv Sena (UBT), the challenge will be to retain its core voter base and organizational strength despite repeated defections. The party has continued to position itself as the true ideological heir of Bal Thackeray while criticizing the Shinde faction for aligning with political rivals.

Battle for Political Relevance Continues

The latest development underscores that the battle between the two Shiv Sena factions remains far from over. While the Shinde camp has secured institutional recognition and continues to attract elected representatives, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction remains determined to rebuild its grassroots network and maintain its political relevance.

With Maharashtra politics entering another phase of uncertainty, the defection of six MPs is expected to intensify the rivalry between the two camps and shape political narratives in the state in the months ahead.