The Election Commission of India (ECI) by an interim order passed on Saturday has barred both Udhav and Shinde groups from using the name and symbol "Shiv Sena" till the final decision of the claims.

The ECI has ordered that till the final decision come, both groups would be allotted different symbols as they may choose from the list of free symbols. The ECI has also given liberty to both the groups that both the groups would be known by such names as they may choose including if they so desire linkage with their parent party "Shiv Sena". ECI has also directed both groups to furnish the fresh symbol they want to be allotted to their candidates in the upcoming election by 10th October 2022. The groups have to give a list of three options in order of preference. They are also directed not to use the symbol "Bow & Arrow" reserved for Shiv Sena.

Last month the Supreme Court of India directed both parties to go before the Election Commission of India to get a decision on the issue and directed the ECI to pass an order on the claim of both groups. Both groups are fighting for the name and symbol claiming that their Shiv Sena is the real Shiv Sena after the defection of the Shinde Group from the Shiv Sena with the majority of its legislators.