CNN Central News and Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Discussions of discontent within Shiv Sena have once again intensified in Maharashtra politics. A look at the party’s history shows that since its formation, Shiv Sena has faced six major splits. Of these, four major rebellions took place during Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership, affecting both the party’s political strength and its organisation.
Continuous challenges under Uddhav’s leadership
Differences within Shiv Sena began to widen after the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in 2019. The biggest setback came in 2022, when a large number of MLAs broke away under the leadership of Eknath Shinde. After that, the party name and election symbol also went to the Shinde faction.
Rebellion had surfaced several times earlier as well
In Shiv Sena’s history, leaders such as Chhagan Bhujbal, Narayan Rane and Raj Thackeray chose separate paths. Raj Thackeray split from the party in 2006 and formed the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), while other leaders also left the party from time to time to create new political alternatives.
Formation of new parties
Several leaders who split from Shiv Sena built separate political identities of their own. MNS is the most prominent example among them. At the same time, some leaders went on to join other national and regional parties and continued to expand their political roles.
Political impact
Repeated splits have weakened Shiv Sena’s organisational structure. A party that appeared united during Balasaheb Thackeray’s era is now seen divided into several factions. Ahead of the upcoming local body and Assembly elections, the party leadership faces a major challenge in keeping the organisation united.
Political analysts believe that if the discontent is not handled in time, Shiv Sena could face fresh challenges in Maharashtra politics.
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