Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Nagesh Ashtikar (File photo) NEW DELHI: Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, one of the six “rebel” Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs, on Sunday said he joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena because he needed funds to work for the people of his constituency.”The work of party workers is not being done as we are not on the side of power. People elected us with a lot of expectations, and getting their work done is my job. But I was not getting any development funds. The Rs 5 crore MPLADS fund is very limited. Considering these factors, I have taken this decision. We need funds, and I have taken this step. I will keep working for the people, and I will complete the responsibility assigned to me by the people,” the Hingoli MP said in a video posted on social media.The remarks were Ashtikar’s first since speculation about “Operation Tiger” and a possible split in the Shiv Sena (UBT) parliamentary party began gathering pace.He further stated that his decision to switch sides was also influenced by “certain remarks”—an apparent reference to senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, the most vocal critic of the dissident MPs. Raut had used abusive language against them during a press conference.”I, and some other MPs (of Sena-UBT), had not made any decision until June 18. We had not gone anywhere. However, certain remarks were made against us since Thursday, which made us believe that there is no point in staying here (Sena-UBT),” he added.(Developing story)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAjmer NEET Re-Exam: Muslim Student Wearing Hijab Alleges She Was Denied Entry At Exam Centre’Samajwadi Party, Congress Using Ram for 2027 UP Elections’: VHP Chief on Ram Mandir Donation RowConstruction Begins on ₹2,935 Crore Indore-Ujjain Greenfield Corridor After Farmer ProtestsJantar Mantar Protest: CJP Alleges Water, Power Cut, Demands Dharmendra Pradhan’s Exit22.8 Lakh Students Appear Nationwide For NEET UG 2026 Re-TestThree Indian Oil Supertankers Cross Strait of Hormuz Hours Before Iran Announces Fresh ClosureBJP Defends Shashi Tharoor, Targets Congress Over Pawan Khera’s RemarksKailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 Begins As First Batch Of Pilgrims Crosses Into China Via Nathu La PassIUML Officially Exits DMK-Led Alliance, Says Future Electoral Tie-Up To Be Decided LaterPM Modi Commissions Three Naval Vessels, Boosts Self-Reliant India Mission123PhotostoriesPersonality test: The bowl you choose reveals if you’re strategic, practical or intuitive9 Michelin-starred restaurants in places you would never expectWimbledon 2026 outfit ideas: How to nail the quiet luxury aesthetic5 places where independent travel is strictly restricted or prohibitedSkin care tips from Kareena Kapoor Khan: From hydrating to not using too many productsSamantha Ruth Prabhu and Raj Nidimoru’s love story: From pickleball wins to baby bump celebrationsIndonesian love proverb of the day: “A mother’s love goes on forever, but a child’s love…”Healthy ageing doesn’t begin at 60: Doctor shares daily habits that can decide how well you’ll live laterHow to let go of inner anger, fear, and resentment: 5 ways to find peace within7 stunning places around the world travellers can’t enter123Hot PicksPetrol, diesel rateMilk price hikeIndia-US trade dealJIO IPODelih weatherGwalior-Prayagraj ExpressWeather forecast tomorrowIndane gas KYCKeir Starmer resignationTop TrendingNEET re examUS-Iran WarYoga Day 2026FIFA World Cup 2026Abhijeet DipkeTamil Nadu Ammonia Gas LeakNEET UG ExamUP Police Constable answer keyBengaluru blue line metroCJP protest
NEW DELHI: Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, one of the six “rebel” Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs, on Sunday said he joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena because he needed funds to work for the people of his constituency.“The work of party workers is not being done as we are not on the side of power. People elected us with a lot of expectations, and getting their work done is my job. But I was not getting any development funds. The Rs 5 crore MPLADS fund is very limited. Considering these factors, I have taken this decision. We need funds, and I have taken this step. I will keep working for the people, and I will complete the responsibility assigned to me by the people,” the Hingoli MP said in a video posted on social media.The remarks were Ashtikar’s first since speculation about “Operation Tiger” and a possible split in the Shiv Sena (UBT) parliamentary party began gathering pace.He further stated that his decision to switch sides was also influenced by “certain remarks”—an apparent reference to senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, the most vocal critic of the dissident MPs. Raut had used abusive language against them during a press conference.“I, and some other MPs (of Sena-UBT), had not made any decision until June 18. We had not gone anywhere. However, certain remarks were made against us since Thursday, which made us believe that there is no point in staying here (Sena-UBT),” he added.(Developing story)
