Mumbai: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), now entering its 60th year of existence, is once again facing a severe political crisis. Following the major split led by Eknath Shinde four years ago, dissent has now openly surfaced among the party's Lok Sabha MPs. The situation is such that speculation is rife about six of the party's nine elected MPs switching sides. Amidst these developments, Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP and chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut has continued his scathing attacks on the rebel MPs.

On Friday, Raut launched a sharp attack on the rebel MPs, alleging that they had turned their political loyalty into a subject of bargaining. He stated that this was not a party split, but a case of political horse-trading. 

'This is not a split, it is bargaining'

Sanjay Raut remarked that while an individual leaving a party due to ideological differences might be termed a split, the act of someone standing in the market to sell themselves—and getting bought—can only be described as bargaining. He alleged that six of the party's MPs had fixed their price two days prior and defected to the other side for political gain.

Raut stated that these leaders did not leave the party due to any ideological disagreement or political principle; instead, they prioritized their personal interests. 

Targeting the six MPs

Naming the rebel MPs—Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, Sanjay Jadhav, Bhausaheb Vakchaure, and Omprakash Rajenimbalkar—Raut accused them of violating party discipline. He noted that despite the party issuing a strict 'three-line whip,' these MPs failed to attend a crucial parliamentary meeting held in Delhi. 

Allegations of a dispute over ministerial berths

Sanjay Raut claimed that a dispute had arisen among the MPs regarding representation in the Union Cabinet. According to him, the situation deteriorated to such an extent that an attempt was made to defuse the matter through a compromise late at night.

He alleged that financial assurances were offered to pacify the disgruntled MPs. Raut claimed that promises of additional financial benefits within the next year were made to ensure the MPs did not publicly express their dissent. However, he did not present any direct evidence to substantiate his allegations. 

‘MPs Hiding Under Heavy Security’

Raut also alleged that the MPs in question are currently staying at undisclosed locations under tight police security. He questioned why such extensive security arrangements were necessary if they had done nothing wrong.

Targeting the Maharashtra government, he remarked that while crimes against women are on the rise in the state, the Home Department’s focus is allegedly centered on the security of ‘traitors’. 

Targeting the BJP as Well

During his statement, Sanjay Raut also responded to remarks made by a senior BJP leader. He dismissed the claim that the MPs had left Shiv Sena (UBT) due to the alliance with the Congress.

Raut stated that the MPs who recently won elections had received full support from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and Congress workers. He questioned why there were no objections when the Congress was part of the alliance during the elections, yet the issue of opposition to the Congress is suddenly being raised now.

Political analysts believe that the growing discontent within Shiv Sena (UBT) could lead to new political equations in Maharashtra in the coming days. Consequently, maintaining organizational unity has become a major challenge for the party leadership.