Sena UBT MP Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar switches to Shinde's camp, second rebel to do so

Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar announced his switch to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Sunday, marking the latest defection from Uddhav Thackeray's camp. Nimbalkar's move comes shortly after Hingoli MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar also joined the ruling Shiv Sena faction.

Both MPs cited a lack of development funds and critical remarks made by Uddhav Thackeray camp leaders against dissident MPs as key reasons for their decisions. Ashtikar stated that comments directed at the rebel MPs convinced them there was "no point" in remaining with the party.

The current political maneuverings highlight an ongoing rebellion within the Shiv Sena (UBT). The situation escalated after six party MPs skipped a parliamentary meeting in Delhi, fueling speculation about their allegiance. While these MPs remained non-committal until June 18, the sharp remarks from party leaders appear to have solidified their decision to switch sides.

Nimbalkar's departure further strengthens the Shinde-led Shiv Sena's position and adds to the uncertainty surrounding the future of the remaining dissident MPs. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party currently holds nine Lok Sabha seats. Under anti-defection laws, at least six MPs would need to move together to avoid disqualification. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had previously issued strong warnings against those leaving the party.

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