14 June,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Spokesperson Bala Nandgaonkar. Pic/ X
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Spokesperson Bala Nandgaonkar on Sunday said routine political consultations should not be misinterpreted as signs of shifting loyalties, amid reports of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) lawmakers being in touch with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction.
Responding to speculations, Nandgaonkar said that meetings between party leaders and elected representatives are a regular feature in all political organisations, where discussions are held on organisational matters and party positions.
"Every party keeps meeting its MPs, MLAs and corporators. There are consultations on issues regarding the party's stand. Meetings keep happening," stated Nandgaonkar.
He added that casual communication between political leaders should not be seen as defection or political realignment.
"Anyone can call anyone in politics and personal life. That does not mean they are in contact or want to leave the party," stated the MNS leader.
Referring to the Shiv Sena's legacy, Nandgaonkar said he did not believe that supporters of the late Balasaheb Thackeray would leave their political commitments.
"I don't think the followers of Balasaheb will go anywhere," he added.
The remarks come amid speculation over internal dynamics within the Shiv Sena (UBT) and alleged outreach from the Shinde-led faction.
Meanwhile, BJP national spokesperson Tuhin Sinha on Sunday claimed that the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction is witnessing internal disarray, citing low attendance at a recent party meeting chaired by Uddhav Thackeray.
Speaking on the alleged organisational crisis within the party, Sinha said, "Uddhav's party is also about to fall apart. Uddhav Thackeray had called an important meeting, and only three out of nine MPs came to meet him, and six MPs skipped the meeting."
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday called a meeting of the party's Members of Parliament (MPs) amid speculation that some lawmakers could switch allegiance to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Five MPs attended the meeting online, while four were present at Matoshree.
The meeting assumes significance in light of ongoing speculation surrounding an alleged "Operation Tiger", under which some Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs are reportedly being targeted for induction into the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Although no official confirmation has been provided of any imminent defections, the reports have sparked discussions within Maharashtra's political landscape, prompting the party leadership to engage directly with its parliamentary representatives.
Party insiders indicated that the meeting provided an opportunity for Thackeray to review organisational matters and discuss the current political situation with MPs.
Earlier this week, Shinde rejected claims that efforts were underway to attract MPs from the rival Sena faction.
Responding to questions from reporters in New Delhi, he said there was no need for any political "number game" as elections had already concluded.
Shinde's remarks sought to downplay speculation of a fresh round of political realignments between the two Shiv Sena factions that have remained bitter rivals since the party split in 2022.
