Six Lok Sabha members from the Shiv Sena (UBT) are expected to meet Speaker Om Birla in Delhi on Wednesday, June 19, 2026 [1], [2].
The meeting represents a critical threat to the stability of the faction led by Uddhav Thackeray. If these members formally split, it could significantly weaken the party's presence in the lower house of Parliament and shift the balance of power in Maharashtra politics.
The gathering at the Speaker's residence is linked to "Operation Tiger," an effort by the government led by Eknath Shinde to finalize a split within the UBT faction [3], [4]. While some reports suggest seven members may be involved, other sources indicate six MPs are set for the meeting [1], [2].
Eknath Shinde said, "Operation Tiger is entering its final stage; we will ensure a smooth transition" [5].
The move has drawn sharp criticism from within the UBT camp. Sanjay Raut said, "They are traitors and have betrayed the party’s ideology" [6].
Despite the tension, a spokesperson for the Shiv Sena (UBT) said, "The MPs will meet the Speaker in accordance with parliamentary rules" [7].
The timing of the meeting follows a period of internal friction and strategic maneuvering between the two rival Shiv Sena factions. The outcome of the discussions with the Speaker will determine whether the members maintain their current affiliation or formally migrate to the Shinde-led government's alliance.
“"Operation Tiger is entering its final stage; we will ensure a smooth transition."”
The potential defection of these MPs would further consolidate Eknath Shinde's control over the Shiv Sena brand and its political machinery. By utilizing the Speaker's office to legitimize a split, the Shinde-led government aims to neutralize the opposition's legislative strength, potentially altering the party's legal status and its ability to claim the original party symbol.
