"Ask for proof": Arvind Sawant dismisses Shiv Sena (UBT) split buzz

New Delhi [India], June 17 (ANI): Amidst speculations regarding a possible rebellion within the party, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Arvind Sawant on Wednesday dismissed the claims, challenging those spreading it to provide proof of party MPs meeting Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
Speaking to ANI regarding rumours that several party MPs were in touch with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to jump ship, Sawant said, "Go to the person who gave you this news and ask for a proof, of the MPs meeting Om Birla," refuting the claims of a fracture in the UBT-led faction.
The MP further criticised the focus on internal party dynamics rather than pressing national issues. He pivoted the conversation toward the economy, and stated that the depreciating value of the Indian currency was a far more significant concern for the public.
"Suppose 4 MPs leave a party. How does it impact the country? How is it harming the people? Depreciating Rupee is affecting the country. This is bringing us disrepute in the world," he added.
His remarks come amid the growing speculation that a group of Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs could break away and form a separate group.
Earlier in the day, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut, along with Lok Sabha MPs Arvind Sawant and Anil Desai, met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in the national capital.
Addressing the media, Raut warned against any possible defections, saying those who wish to leave the party should resign and face the public again.
"If anyone wants to go, they can resign and leave. If such reports emerge about our MPs, then they should refute them. This time, the people of Maharashtra will not remain silent," he said.
Raut also alleged attempts to engineer a split in the party, claiming financial inducements were being offered to MPs.
"I have information that Rs 15 crore each was delivered to the MPs, after which they boarded charter flights from three places, including Nanded and Pune. We have issued a whip for the Parliamentary Party Meeting tomorrow. Arvind ji has written to the Lok Sabha Speaker," he said.
Maharashtra is currently witnessing "Operation Tiger" buzz amid speculation that seven of the nine UBT MPs were in touch with Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and are looking to join the ruling party. Back in 2022, Shinde, along with several MLAs, broke away from Uddhav Thackeray, splitting the party into two. (ANI)