Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday accused rebel MPs of betraying both the party and the people after two more lawmakers formally joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, deepening the crisis within the Thackeray camp.

Addressing party workers in Mumbai, Thackeray asserted that there could be only one Shiv Sena, saying the party's legacy was built on protecting the rights of Marathi people. He alleged that leaders switching sides were doing so for power and money despite the party's electoral success in 2024. The setback for Shiv Sena (UBT) grew after MPs Omraje Nimbalkar and Nagesh Ashtikar announced their decision to join the Shinde faction.

The Shinde-led Shiv Sena is reportedly implementing its strategy, dubbed “Operation Tiger”, to expand its strength by attracting leaders from the rival camp. Party leaders claim that several MPs and as many as 45 corporators from Shiv Sena (UBT) are considering a switch. According to Shiv Sena leaders, securing the support of 45 corporators would cross the two-thirds threshold required to avoid disqualification under anti-defection laws.

As defections continue to mount, Uddhav Thackeray has launched an outreach campaign to retain support within the party. The developments have intensified the political battle between the two Shiv Sena factions ahead of key electoral contests in Maharashtra.