 leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Thursday escalated his criticism of party MPs reportedly in contact with the Eknath){kind=link}
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut launched a sharp attack on MPs allegedly in touch with the Eknath Shinde-led faction
June 18, 2026: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Thursday escalated his criticism of party MPs reportedly in contact with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. Speaking in Delhi, Raut accused the lawmakers of betraying the party and said action would be taken once the Lok Sabha process concerning the matter is completed.
Raut asserted that the party’s fight against defectors would continue on multiple fronts, including Parliament, the courts and public platforms. Taking a swipe at reports that some of the MPs visited Tirupati, he questioned the move, saying those who had allegedly betrayed the party were now seeking divine blessings after their actions.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also claimed that the rebel MPs were acting out of fear and alleged that security around their residences had been increased. Without providing evidence, Raut further suggested that the lawmakers had received financial inducements. His remarks come amid an intensifying political battle between the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction and the Eknath Shinde camp over loyalty, defections and control of the party’s political future.