Six Shiv Sena UBT MPs Expected to Split and Join Shinde Camp

Six Lok Sabha members from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction are expected to formalize their split from the party today [1, 2].

This movement represents a significant blow to the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray and suggests a shift in the political balance within Maharashtra. The departure of these lawmakers could weaken the UBT faction's influence in the lower house of Parliament while strengthening the rival camp led by Eknath Shinde.

The rebel group includes Sanjay Jadhav, Bhausaheb Wakchoure, Omraje Nimbalkar, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Patil Ashtekar, and Sanjay D [1, 2]. These six MPs ^[1] are expected to align themselves with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction following a period of internal dissent within the UBT camp [1, 2].

Reports on the timing of the transition have varied. Some sources indicate the split will be formalized on June 21, 2026 [1, 2], while other reports suggested the move was set for June 19, 2026 ^[2]. Despite these discrepancies, the trend indicates a strategic move by the lawmakers to align with the ruling faction in the state.

Internal friction has characterized the relationship between the rebel MPs and the party leadership. While the group is expected to merge with the Shinde camp, some reports indicate that at least one rebel MP said he remains pro-Uddhav ^[2].

The shift comes as the two factions of the Shiv Sena continue to battle for legitimacy and control over the party's identity in the political landscape of the U.S. and India. The move by these lawmakers follows a pattern of strategic realignments in Maharashtra politics, where party loyalty often shifts toward the faction with greater administrative power.