Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday made a provocative statement amid speculation of a rebellion within the party, asserting that the 'MSP' (Minimum Support Price) for an MP is fixed at Rs 50 crore. He challenged any MP wishing to leave the party to resign first.
Speaking to reporters, Raut said: “You know today about the importance of the Supreme Court, Election Commission and Speaker.” He did not elaborate further but his remarks were seen as a veiled warning to potential defectors.
The comment comes at a time when the Shiv Sena (UBT) is facing internal turmoil, with reports of some MPs being in touch with the rival faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Raut’s statement appears to be an attempt to discourage any further exodus.
Raut, a Rajya Sabha member and the party’s chief spokesperson, has been vocal against the Shinde camp, accusing them of betraying the party’s ideology. He has repeatedly claimed that the Shinde faction lacks the numbers to survive.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, which also includes the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) and Congress. The party has been struggling to retain its base after a split last year.
Political analysts suggest that Raut’s remarks are aimed at consolidating the party’s position ahead of upcoming elections. However, the exact context of his reference to the Supreme Court and Election Commission remains unclear.
