Crucial Verdict Looms as Maharashtra Speaker Narwekar Decides on Shiv Sena Faction Disqualifications

Sena vs Sena LIVE Updates: Today, Maharashtra assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar is set to announce a crucial decision at 4 pm regarding cross-petitions by different factions within the Shiv Sena, each seeking the disqualification of the other's MLAs. This development comes more than 18 months after a split in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, resulting in Eknath Shinde becoming the chief minister.

Prior to the verdict, Shinde emphasized that the speaker should base his decision on merit. He pointed out that his group comprises 67% of Shiv Sena lawmakers in the assembly and 75% in the Lok Sabha. Addressing allegations of match-fixing, Shinde dismissed them, stating that there is no substance to such claims and urged the speaker to deliver a judgment based on merit.

Meanwhile, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) has submitted an affidavit in the Supreme Court objecting to a recent meeting between Shinde and speaker Narwekar. Shinde is one of the MLAs facing disqualification. This has led to a verbal spat between the opposing sides. The outcome of Narwekar's decision will significantly impact the future of the Eknath Shinde government and the dynamics within the rival groups within the regional outfit.