Seven of nine members of parliament from the Uddhav-led Shiv Sena are reportedly ready to defect to Eknath Shinde’s faction [1].
This shift would significantly alter the balance of power in the Indian Parliament. A successful crossover of these lawmakers could provide the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) with a super-majority, granting the coalition greater legislative control.
Dr. Raju Waghmare, the chief spokesperson for Shiv Sena, said seven of nine Uddhav Sena MPs are "ready to cross over" [1]. Waghmare said the current situation is the final stage of a strategy called "Operation Tiger" [1].
The reported movement comes amid broader political realignments in Maharashtra and West Bengal. While the Shinde faction seeks to absorb these members, the Uddhav-led camp has downplayed rumors that its MPs are planning to join the rival faction [2].
Ram Kadam, a leader within the BJP, said there would be consequences if the MPs decide to defect [2]. The tension reflects a strategic effort to strengthen the NDA's parliamentary numbers ahead of upcoming elections.
These developments mirror internal instability seen in other parties, including a rebellion within the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal [1]. The potential loss of seven lawmakers would leave the Uddhav-led Shiv Sena with only two members of parliament [1].
“Seven of nine Uddhav Sena MPs are 'ready to cross over,' calling it the final stage of 'Operation Tiger.'”
The potential defection of these MPs represents a critical blow to the opposition's strength in Parliament. By securing a super-majority through the absorption of Shiv Sena members, the NDA could bypass legislative hurdles and pass significant bills with minimal resistance, further consolidating the BJP's grip on national policy.
