Seven members of parliament from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) are reportedly in contact with Eknath Shinde's faction [1].

These potential defections could fundamentally shift the balance of power in the Lok Sabha. If the MPs cross over, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) could secure a super-majority in Parliament, granting the ruling coalition significantly more legislative leverage.

Reports indicate that seven of the nine total Uddhav Sena MPs [2] are potentially ready to switch allegiances. Dr. Raju Waghmare, the Shiv Sena Chief Spokesperson, said this is the final stage of "Operation Tiger," and said, "Seven of the nine Uddhav Sena MPs are ‘ready to cross over’" [1].

The development follows ongoing internal splits within both the Uddhav-led Shiv Sena and the Trinamool Congress. These divisions have created openings for legislators to move toward the NDA, strengthening the coalition's grip on governance in India, specifically affecting the political landscape in Maharashtra and West Bengal [1].

However, the UBT camp has downplayed these rumors. Representatives for the Thackeray faction said that no definitive move has been made by the lawmakers [2].

Despite the denials, the prospect of a mass crossover remains a critical point of tension. The BJP has reportedly warned of consequences regarding these political shifts as the NDA seeks to solidify its parliamentary standing [1].

Seven of the nine Uddhav Sena MPs are ‘ready to cross over’

A shift of seven MPs would not only deplete the opposition's numbers in the Lok Sabha but would likely signal a collapse of the UBT's influence in Maharashtra. By moving toward a super-majority, the NDA could bypass the need for smaller coalition partners on key legislation, centralizing power further within the ruling bloc.