Mumbai, June 17: Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MP Sanjay Dina Patil has strongly dismissed rumours of defection, making it clear that he remains committed to the party led by Uddhav Thackeray. Amid growing political speculation in Maharashtra, Sanjay Dina Patil categorically denied being part of any alleged rebel group and reaffirmed his allegiance to Shiv Sena (UBT).

The statement comes at a time when reports have suggested that several Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs could switch sides and join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. However, the Mumbai North East MP has rejected these claims, describing them as baseless and politically motivated.

Sanjay Dina Patil Rejects Rebel List Claims

Speaking to ANI, Sanjay Dina Patil firmly denied reports that his name appeared on any list of rebel MPs.

“I deny being on any rebel list. I am an MP of SSUBT and will be in SSUBT only,” Sanjay Dina Patil said.

His clear statement aims to put an end to speculation regarding his political future. Over the past few days, rumours of internal divisions within Shiv Sena (UBT) have dominated Maharashtra’s political landscape, leading to questions about the loyalty of several Members of Parliament.

Loyalty to Uddhav Thackeray

Sanjay Dina Patil reiterated that his commitment to Shiv Sena (UBT) and party chief Uddhav Thackeray remains unchanged. He also attended a key meeting at Uddhav Thackeray’s residence earlier this week, a move viewed as a strong indication of his continued support for the party leadership.

Political observers believe the presence of Sanjay Dina Patil at the meeting sends a clear message that he has no intention of joining any rival political camp.

Defection Rumours Spark Political Debate

The controversy surrounding emerged amid reports of an alleged “Operation Tiger,” a term being used in Maharashtra politics to describe attempts to persuade Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to join the ruling Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

According to political speculation, seven out of nine Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs were reportedly being approached to switch allegiance. However, Sanjay Dina Patil has publicly rejected these claims and clarified his position.

His statement has provided reassurance to party workers who were concerned about possible defections ahead of upcoming political developments in Maharashtra.

Background of the Shiv Sena Split

The current political situation traces back to 2022 when Eknath Shinde, along with several MLAs, rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray, resulting in a split within Shiv Sena.

Since then, Maharashtra politics has remained highly competitive, with both factions working to strengthen their political support. Against this backdrop, every statement made by leaders like attracts considerable attention.

The latest clarification by Sanjay Dina Patil is therefore being viewed as an important development in the ongoing political narrative.

Priyanka Chaturvedi Targets BJP

Reacting to reports of possible defections, Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of encouraging political defections.

In a post on social media platform X, Chaturvedi used a metaphor involving snakes to caution the BJP.

She stated that the BJP should not assume that leaders joining the party would remain permanently loyal, suggesting that political defections often carry long-term consequences.

Although her remarks were directed at the BJP, they came amid widespread discussion surrounding leaders including Sanjay Dina Patil.

Political Significance of Sanjay Dina Patil’s Statement

Political analysts believe that the statement issued by Sanjay Dina Patil could help reduce speculation surrounding internal divisions within Shiv Sena (UBT).

His public declaration of loyalty sends a message to party workers and supporters that not every rumour circulating in political circles reflects reality.

For Shiv Sena (UBT), retaining experienced leaders like is considered crucial as the party prepares for future electoral challenges.

Maharashtra Politics Remains Dynamic

Maharashtra continues to witness rapid political developments following the split in Shiv Sena. The state’s political environment remains fluid, with alliances, leadership strategies, and party equations constantly evolving.

Against this backdrop, statements from senior leaders such as Sanjay Dina Patil play an important role in shaping public perception and political narratives.

While speculation may continue, the MP’s repeated denial has helped clarify his position within the party.

Importance of Party Unity

Experts believe maintaining unity will be essential for Shiv Sena (UBT) as it seeks to strengthen its organisational structure ahead of future elections.

The clarification by Sanjay Dina Patil may also boost the confidence of party workers who have been concerned by continuous rumours of defections.

Political observers note that public reaffirmations of loyalty often become important during periods of uncertainty and internal speculation.

What Lies Ahead?

Although Sanjay Dina Patil has dismissed all reports of rebellion, Maharashtra politics is expected to remain closely watched in the coming weeks. Both the ruling alliance and the opposition are likely to continue efforts to consolidate their political support.

For now, Sanjay Dina Patil has made his position unmistakably clear—he remains with Shiv Sena (UBT) and has no plans to leave the party.

The strong statement by Sanjay Dina Patil has effectively countered rumours surrounding his alleged defection from Shiv Sena (UBT). By publicly reaffirming his loyalty to Uddhav Thackeray, Sanjay Dina Patil has attempted to end speculation and reassure party workers.

As Maharashtra’s political landscape continues to evolve, leaders’ statements will remain under close scrutiny. However, for the moment, Sanjay Dina Patil has made it clear that his political future lies with Shiv Sena (UBT), rejecting all reports suggesting otherwise.