Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Anil Desai has denied reports that party members are defecting to the Eknath Shinde-led faction under a plan called ‘Operation Tiger’.
The dispute highlights the ongoing instability within Maharashtra's political landscape as rival factions of the Shiv Sena fight for legitimacy and legislative strength. A mass defection would significantly weaken Uddhav Thackeray's leadership and shift the balance of power in the state.
Desai said the reports regarding the coordinated defection are media hype. He defended the leadership of party chief Uddhav Thackeray and criticized the Shinde camp for fueling rumors to create a perception of instability within the UBT faction.
However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the scale of the alleged split. One report stated that six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs have formally joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena [1]. Another report suggested that seven MPs are currently in touch with the Shinde faction [2].
Sanjay Raut, another prominent figure in the party, addressed the potential for departures by emphasizing the need for electoral accountability. Raut said any MP wishing to leave the party should first resign from their post and seek a fresh mandate from the people.
The tension between the two camps remains high as both sides navigate the legal and political fallout of the original party split. While the UBT leadership maintains that their members remain loyal, the Shinde camp continues to target the faction's stability through alleged recruitment efforts.
“"Operation Tiger claims are media hype."”
The contradictory reports of six [1] to seven [2] MPs in contact with the Shinde camp suggest a volatile internal environment for Shiv Sena (UBT). While the party leadership publicly denies these claims to maintain morale and prevent further attrition, the focus on 'Operation Tiger' indicates a strategic effort by the Shinde faction to dismantle Thackeray's remaining legislative influence in Maharashtra.
