Fresh Sena Rebellion May Reshape Maharashtra Power Dynamics, Put Fadnavis-Shinde Ties Under Pressure
Maharashtra , June 18 : A possible new rebellion within Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) could once again shake Maharashtra politics, with reports suggesting that six MPs may switch to Eknath Shinde’s camp. If it happens, it would mark another major setback for Uddhav Thackeray after the historic 2022 split that cost him power and control of the original Shiv Sena.
But the ripple effects may not stop with Uddhav. Political observers say the move could also shift the balance of power between Shinde and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inside the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
At present, Shinde’s Sena has seven MPs in the Lok Sabha, while the Bharatiya Janata Party holds nine from Maharashtra. If six more MPs join Shinde, his tally would rise to 13 — giving him a stronger position in Delhi and potentially more leverage within the alliance.
In the state Assembly, BJP remains dominant with 132 MLAs, while Shinde’s Sena has 57. This numerical gap allowed Fadnavis to return as Chief Minister after the 2024 elections, pushing Shinde into the Deputy CM role. Since then, BJP has largely controlled key decisions in the government.
However, the numbers in Parliament tell a different story. A stronger Shinde in Lok Sabha could change how BJP negotiates with him, especially as internal tensions over seat-sharing, ministerial posts, and political turf continue to grow.
Analysts believe the timing of this rebellion is crucial. After lying low following the 2022 split, Shinde now appears focused on strengthening his position as BJP’s grip on Maharashtra politics grows. A successful move would not only weaken Uddhav further but also re-establish Shinde as a major force within the NDA.
For Uddhav Thackeray, this could be another tough political blow. For Shinde, it could be a strategic comeback. And for Fadnavis, it may mean dealing with a stronger ally who now has greater bargaining power than before.
The developments could redefine the future of Maharashtra’s ruling alliance and set the stage for fresh political battles in the months ahead.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
