Supreme Court Seeks Lok Sabha Speaker's Response on Approval of UBT Sena MPs' Merger with Shinde Sena

Supreme Court Issues Notice

The Supreme Court has asked the Lok Sabha Speaker to file a response in a petition questioning the decision to recognise the merger of certain Shiv Sena (UBT) Members of Parliament with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

The matter came before the apex court following a legal challenge to the Speaker's approval.

Petition Challenges Speaker's Decision

The petition raises questions over the legality of the merger and contends that the recognition should be reviewed.

Key issues before the court include:

• Compliance with the Tenth Schedule (anti-defection law).

• The procedure adopted by the Lok Sabha Speaker.

• Recognition of parliamentary party mergers.

• Constitutional interpretation of merger provisions.

The Supreme Court has not expressed any opinion on the merits of the petition.

Speaker Directed to Respond

The court has issued notice to the Lok Sabha Speaker, seeking a reply before further hearings.

The Speaker's response and submissions from other parties will form part of the judicial proceedings.

Political Background

The case is another chapter in the prolonged legal and political dispute between the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena over the control and recognition of the party's legislative wing.

The issue has previously resulted in litigation before constitutional authorities and the judiciary.

Looking Ahead

The Supreme Court's ruling could provide further clarity on the scope of the anti-defection law and the powers of the Lok Sabha Speaker in recognising parliamentary party mergers. Until then, the matter remains under judicial consideration.