Six members of Parliament from Shiv Sena (UBT) have reportedly joined the faction led by Eknath Shinde [1].
This shift in parliamentary numbers significantly weakens the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction's influence in the Lok Sabha while consolidating power for the Shinde camp. The move comes as part of a strategic effort to strengthen the party ahead of internal political battles in Maharashtra.
The initiative, referred to as "Operation Tiger," aimed to secure a larger bloc of lawmakers for the Shinde faction [1], [2]. Eknath Shinde said, "Operation Tiger is a success."
Following the transition, the Uddhav faction has been reduced to three Lok Sabha members [1]. This loss of legislative strength may impact the group's ability to challenge the current administration's agenda in the lower house of India's parliament.
However, the full extent of the success remains a point of contention among political observers. While some reports confirm the six-member transfer, other accounts suggest that two MPs from the Uddhav camp may not have signed the letter supporting the split [2]. This discrepancy indicates that the complete transfer of all six lawmakers to the Shinde camp remains uncertain [2].
The political landscape in Maharashtra has been characterized by repeated fractures within the Shiv Sena. The current movement of MPs further complicates the rivalry between the Shinde and Thackeray wings of the party, as both factions vie for the legal and political legitimacy of the original Shiv Sena brand.
“"Operation Tiger is a success."”
The potential defection of these MPs represents a critical blow to the Shiv Sena (UBT) and a strategic victory for Eknath Shinde. By reducing the opposition's numbers in the Lok Sabha, the Shinde faction increases its bargaining power and stability within the ruling coalition. If the reports of unsigned letters are true, it suggests that the internal cohesion of the Uddhav camp may not be as depleted as Shinde claims, leaving a small window for legal or political challenges to the defection.
