Sanjay Raut Makes Explosive Claim
Amid increasing speculation about a possible split in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has alleged that Members of Parliament from his party were offered ₹15 crore each to switch sides. The allegation comes as rumors of defections and internal unrest continue to dominate Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Moreover, Raut claimed that efforts were being made to weaken the party by enticing its MPs with financial incentives and political promises. However, he did not publicly provide evidence to support the allegation.
Defection Rumours Fuel Political Uncertainty
The controversy erupted amid reports suggesting that several Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs could join the rival faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Political circles in Maharashtra have been abuzz with discussions surrounding an alleged operation aimed at engineering defections from the Uddhav camp.
Furthermore, reports indicated that negotiations with some MPs were allegedly underway, adding to concerns about the future unity of the party.
Party Leadership Denies Any Split
Despite the rumors, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have repeatedly asserted that the party remains united. Uddhav Thackeray recently convened a meeting of party MPs, and leaders claimed that all nine Lok Sabha MPs participated either physically or virtually.
Additionally, senior leaders stated that reports of mass defections were exaggerated and intended to create confusion among party workers and supporters.
Speaker Asked Not to Recognize Any Breakaway Group
Amid concerns over a potential rebellion, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has reportedly written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, requesting that no separate faction claiming to represent Shiv Sena (UBT) be granted official recognition. The move is seen as an effort to prevent any future breakaway group from gaining parliamentary legitimacy.
Moreover, the letter highlights the seriousness with which the party leadership is viewing the ongoing speculation.
‘Operation Tiger’ Becomes Political Talking Point
The term “Operation Tiger” has become a major talking point in Maharashtra politics, referring to alleged attempts to bring UBT MPs into the Shinde camp. In response, Uddhav Thackeray has intensified efforts to consolidate support within the party and has scheduled meetings with legislators to reinforce unity.
Consequently, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial for the future direction of the party.
Maharashtra Politics Enters New Phase
The latest allegations come at a time when opposition parties across the country are facing internal challenges and defections. Political observers believe that any significant movement of MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) could reshape political equations in Maharashtra ahead of future electoral battles.
Furthermore, both the ruling alliance and opposition parties are closely monitoring developments within the Uddhav camp.
Conclusion
Sanjay Raut’s allegation that Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs were offered ₹15 crore each to defect has added a fresh twist to the ongoing speculation surrounding a possible split in the party. While the leadership insists that all MPs remain loyal to Uddhav Thackeray, reports of defections and internal maneuvering continue to keep Maharashtra politics on edge.
As political uncertainty persists, all eyes will remain on the Uddhav Thackeray camp and whether it can successfully ward off another major challenge to its unity.
