Shiv Sena MLC Krupal Tumane said seven members of parliament from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) are close to joining Eknath Shinde's faction [1].
This potential shift in allegiance could significantly alter the balance of power in the Lok Sabha. By bolstering the numbers of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the move would strengthen the Shinde faction's influence and weaken the opposition's presence in India's lower house [1].
The effort to secure these defections has been dubbed “Operation Tiger” [1]. Tumane said the operation is currently in its final stage and is expected to conclude before the Monsoon Session of Parliament [1].
While Tumane cited seven MPs [1], other reports indicate a slightly different number. IndiaTV News reported that six of the nine UBT MPs have approached the Lok Sabha Speaker [3]. This discrepancy highlights the fluid nature of the ongoing negotiations between the rival factions of the Shiv Sena.
The scope of the political realignment may extend beyond the Lok Sabha. Moneycontrol reported that 16 members of the legislative assembly are also in contact with the Shinde camp [2]. These discussions suggest a broader effort to consolidate power within Maharashtra's political landscape, an effort the UBT camp has denied.
The timing of these moves is strategic, coinciding with the lead-up to the parliamentary session. If the defections occur, they would provide a numerical boost to the Shinde-led group and the wider NDA coalition [1].
“Seven members of parliament from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) are close to joining Eknath Shinde's faction.”
The alleged 'Operation Tiger' represents a tactical attempt to destabilize the Shiv Sena (UBT) and solidify the NDA's legislative dominance. If a significant bloc of MPs and MLAs switches sides, it could marginalize Uddhav Thackeray's influence in both the state and national arenas, further cementing Eknath Shinde's position as the primary leader of the Shiv Sena brand in Maharashtra.
