Six members of parliament from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction are reportedly planning to defect to the rival camp led by Eknath Shinde [2].
This potential shift threatens the stability of the UBT leadership and could significantly alter the balance of power in Maharashtra's political landscape. The move comes amid a broader struggle for control over the party's legacy and parliamentary representation.
The alleged effort to sway lawmakers is being referred to as “Operation Tiger” [1, 3]. Reports indicate that meetings involving these MPs have taken place in Delhi [2, 3]. Some reports suggest that monetary inducements of ₹15 crore per MP are being offered to secure the defections [1].
Speculation regarding the rebellion intensified in May 2026, with reports of key meetings surfacing on 19 May 2026 [3]. The timing of these movements is reportedly tied to the Shiv Sena Foundation Day [2].
Party leader Sanjay Raut said those who regret joining the Shinde faction have a chance to fix their mistake [4]. However, other reports describe a state of panic within the UBT leadership, alleging that some MPs have become unreachable [1].
While some sources emphasize the political realignment and strategic shifts, others focus on the financial nature of the alleged offers [1, 2]. The internal turmoil reflects a deeper leadership crisis that some party figures believe could lead to the demise of the Shiv Sena UBT by 2029 [5].
These developments occur as both factions attempt to strengthen their positions ahead of upcoming parliamentary sessions [4, 5].
“Six members of parliament from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction are reportedly planning to defect”
The alleged 'Operation Tiger' represents a critical vulnerability for the Uddhav-led faction. If six MPs defect, it would not only diminish the party's legislative strength but also validate the Shinde faction's claim to be the dominant force of the original Shiv Sena. This instability suggests that the party's internal cohesion is fragile, making it susceptible to targeted poaching ahead of major legislative cycles.
