Internal Rift Erupts in Shiv Sena (UBT)

Two Factions Clash Over Felicitation Ceremony

YAVATMAL: Tensions reached a breaking point within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction in Yavatmal on Saturday, December 27, during a felicitation ceremony for MP Sanjay Deshmukh. The event, held at the Utsav Mangal Karyalay, turned into a chaotic scene as two internal groups engaged in a violent confrontation involving stick-wielding supporters and heated verbal exchanges.
The dispute traces back to the recent Municipal Council elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress party had failed to reach an alliance, leading both parties to field independent candidates. This resulted in the defeat of several Shiv Sena candidates.
District Chief Rajendra Gaikwad has blamed internal "traitors" for these losses, leading to the expulsion of certain office bearers, including Santosh Dhawale.
The clash broke out when Santosh Dhawale and his supporters arrived at the felicitation venue for MP Sanjay Deshmukh. Enraged party workers climbed onto the stage, tearing down banners and posters featuring the MP. Supporters from both sides, some armed with sticks, engaged in a physical and verbal spat, shouting slogans against one another.
The situation grew so volatile that the Awadhutwadi Police had to rush to the scene to disperse the crowd and mediate between the two groups to prevent further violence.
War of Words
> "Those who worked against the party will be taught a lesson. We will not tolerate an insult to our Member of Parliament."
> — Rajendra Gaikwad, District Chief
>
> "We protest the defeat, but our voices are being suppressed through dictatorial methods by those responsible for the loss."
> — Santosh Dhawale, Former Office Bearer
The internal rift within the Yavatmal Shiv Sena (UBT) has now become public. With both sides refusing to back down and accusations of "treachery" flying, the political atmosphere in the city remains highly charged. Local observers suggest this infighting could have a significant impact on the party's performance in upcoming local elections.