Speculation over a possible internal split within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) has intensified following reports of absenteeism and political signalling by several of its Members of Parliament. The developments have revived memories of the 2022 political split and raised questions about whether the faction led by Uddhav Thackeray is facing another round of internal realignment.

According to party sources, five of the nine MPs from the UBT Sena were absent from a recent meeting called by Thackeray at his residence, Matoshree. While some leaders claimed the MPs attended virtually, their physical absence has fuelled speculation within political circles that a section of the party’s parliamentary leadership may be in contact with the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The MPs named in reports include Sanjay Jadhav, Sanjay Deshmukh, Omraje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, and Nagesh Patil Ashtikar.

Adding to the uncertainty, the same group of MPs reportedly did not attend a birthday gathering for Aaditya Thackeray a day earlier, further strengthening rumours of internal discord. While MP Bhausaheb Wakchaure denied any immediate split, he made a cryptic remark suggesting uncertainty about future political decisions. Party leaders, however, have publicly maintained that there is no organisational crisis and have dismissed the speculation as politically motivated.

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During the meeting, there were also claims that Uddhav Thackeray remarked that those wishing to leave the party were free to do so. However, senior party leader Sanjay Raut denied this, stating that no such comment was made. He has repeatedly downplayed the rebellion buzz, insisting that internal matters will be resolved within the party framework and dismissing reports of coordinated defection efforts.

Meanwhile, internal political signalling has further complicated the situation. MP Sanjay Deshmukh’s meeting with Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav from the Eknath Shinde camp triggered additional speculation, though party leaders said the interaction was related to constituency work. Leaders such as Anil Desai and Arvind Sawant have also publicly rejected the “Operation Tiger” narrative, describing it as exaggerated and unfounded while asserting that there is no real organisational split underway.

Attention is now focused on upcoming party events, including the Shiv Sena foundation day gathering on June 19 in Mumbai and a meeting of UBT MLAs scheduled for June 22. With internal disagreements and public messaging diverging, political observers say the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the faction can maintain unity or whether deeper fractures begin to emerge within the party structure.

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