Uddhav Thackeray said that the defection of six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to the Eknath Shinde faction is part of a plot to sideline Devendra Fadnavis [1].
This political shift threatens to alter the power dynamics within the ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra. The movement of lawmakers could redistribute legislative influence and impact future leadership negotiations between the BJP and the Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Thackeray described the move as "Operation Devendra," and said the defections were orchestrated to marginalize Fadnavis within the alliance [1]. The Maharashtra chief minister said the claim is false [1].
Six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs have already joined the Eknath Shinde faction [2]. If six more MPs join this group, the Shinde faction would hold 13 Lok Sabha seats [2].
Internal tensions have surfaced regarding the state's leadership. Reports indicate some Sena leaders want Eknath Shinde to serve as chief minister for two and a half years [3]. These developments occur as the alliance manages the balance of power between its constituent parties.
Fadnavis remains a central figure in the state's administration, though the recent accusations suggest a perceived vulnerability in his position. The shifting loyalties of MPs continue to create volatility in the regional political landscape — a trend that has characterized Maharashtra's governance in recent years.
“The defection of six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to the Eknath Shinde faction was part of an 'Operation Devendra'.”
The allegation of 'Operation Devendra' highlights the fragile nature of the Mahayuti alliance, where internal competition for leadership often outweighs party cohesion. By framing the defections as a targeted move against Fadnavis, Thackeray is attempting to expose fissures between the BJP and Shinde's faction. If the Shinde faction continues to grow its parliamentary presence, it gains significant leverage in negotiating the duration and terms of the chief ministership.
