Shiv Sena's anniversary: Samanta's comments create an atmosphere of concern in Thackeray's Shiv Sena
As Shiv Sena marks its 59th Foundation Day, a political storm is brewing amid grand celebrations. This is the third anniversary of the split between the original Shiv Sena and the formation of two rival factions — one led by Uddhav Thackeray and the other by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Both sides are showcasing their strength today, with Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray's faction hosting an event at Shanmukhananda Hall, while the Shinde-led Shiv Sena is celebrating at Worli Dome.
However, the spotlight has now shifted to a sensational statement made by Uday Samant, a minister and prominent leader from the Shinde camp. Speaking on the occasion of Shiv Sena’s anniversary, Samant declared, “There’s an explosion every day. Eknath Shinde welcomes new leaders daily. Many office bearers from Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray's group are in touch with us. Given the daily developments, I feel a major explosion will happen on the 19th.”
His comments have intensified speculation that a prominent office bearer from Uddhav Thackeray’s faction may defect to the Shinde camp. This comes just a day after Uddhav Thackeray held a meeting with former corporators in Mumbai, during which sources suggest that at least three former corporators are in contact with the Shinde group.
This potential shift of loyalties could be a major setback for the Thackeray faction, especially on the symbolic occasion of the party’s anniversary. In the past, several corporators from Uddhav's camp had already crossed over to Eknath Shinde’s faction, weakening the Thackeray-led group’s grassroots base, particularly in Mumbai and Thane.
While no official announcement has been made yet, Samant’s statement has triggered intense political chatter. Will another round of defections shake the Thackeray camp? Will the anniversary celebration turn into a day of damage control for Uddhav’s faction? As both sides continue to assert legitimacy over the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray, today’s developments could further reshape the internal dynamics of Maharashtra’s Shiv Sena politics. All eyes are now on the promised "blast" of June 19.