Two members of parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) defected to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction on June 17, 2026 [1].

The move threatens the stability of the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction and highlights an intensifying struggle for control over the party's identity in Maharashtra. This shift occurs as the state's political landscape remains volatile following previous splits within the regional powerhouse.

Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar and Nagesh Ashtikar are the two lawmakers who crossed over to the Shinde faction [1]. While some reports indicate only two MPs have switched [1], other sources suggest as many as six MPs may be set to join the Shinde-led group [2].

The defections stem from a growing internal split within the Shiv Sena (UBT) over leadership and direction. The rebel lawmakers were expected to explain the specific circumstances that led to their decision to break away from the Thackeray-led party [1].

Uddhav Thackeray has responded to the crisis by asserting his authority over the organization. "There is only one Shiv Sena, headed by me," Thackeray said [3].

The political friction in Mumbai has intensified as both factions vie for the legitimacy of the party name and symbol. The departure of Nimbalkar and Ashtikar marks a tangible loss of parliamentary strength for the UBT faction, a blow that could influence future legislative maneuvers in the state.

“"There is only one Shiv Sena, headed by me."”

The defection of these MPs suggests that the internal divide within the Shiv Sena (UBT) is widening, potentially weakening Uddhav Thackeray's leverage in Maharashtra. If the higher estimate of six defectors proves accurate, it would represent a significant systemic collapse of the UBT's parliamentary wing, further consolidating Eknath Shinde's position and complicating the legal and political battle for the party's official recognition.