Lok Sabha MPs Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Omraje Nimbalkar on Sunday confirmed that they had joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, citing difficulties in securing development funds and addressing constituency issues while sitting in the opposition.
Ashtikar, the MP from Hingoli, said comments made against him and other MPs in recent days had influenced his decision to leave the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). He said the move was taken after considering the interests of his constituency and party workers.
“The work expected by people and party workers was becoming difficult due to limited access to development funds,” Ashtikar said in a video message shared on social media.
Dharashiv MP Omraje Nimbalkar said he took the decision after consulting supporters in his constituency. He said the lack of adequate funding had affected development works and efforts to address public concerns.
Ashtikar said he did not hold any personal differences with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray or party leader Sanjay Raut. He described his decision as a shift within the Shiv Sena fold and said he would continue to work for the people who elected him.
The development comes amid speculation over possible defections from Shiv Sena (UBT). Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde indicated that further political developments could follow, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis commented on the latest entrants to the ruling alliance.
The political activity intensified after six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs were absent from the party’s parliamentary meeting in New Delhi on June 17, leading to speculation about their future within the organisation.
Shiv Sena (UBT) currently has nine members in the Lok Sabha. Any future developments will be closely watched in the context of provisions under the anti-defection law.
