Major Political Shift in Maharashtra: Six MPs Set to Join Shinde's Shiv Sena

Significant Political Developments in Maharashtra

A surprising turn of events is unfolding in Maharashtra's political landscape. Reports indicate that six out of nine Lok Sabha MPs from Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) are poised to officially join the faction led by Eknath Shinde. If this political maneuvering is confirmed, it would represent a substantial blow to Thackeray's faction, marking the most significant setback since the rebellion in 2022.

Formal Joining Expected Soon

Sources suggest that the six MPs are likely to make their formal transition to the Shinde faction after 3 PM today. An official letter featuring photographs of the MPs is expected to be released around 11 AM. Following the completion of the joining process, a press conference is anticipated around 4 PM. However, no official confirmation has been provided by either side as of yet.

Signs of Growing Rebellion

This development comes just a day after the six MPs did not attend a parliamentary party meeting in Delhi. Reports indicate that they submitted a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, requesting recognition as a separate group. This move has intensified speculation that they are preparing to break away from Thackeray's faction and align with Shinde's Shiv Sena. Should this merger occur, it would bolster Eknath Shinde's position in Maharashtra politics and provide additional support to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the center.

Political Analysts Weigh In

Political analysts are referring to this potential shift as "Operation Tiger," highlighting the increasing dissent within Shiv Sena (UBT), which has led to tensions, public criticism, and legal warnings from party leaders.

Amit Shah's Remarks on the Situation

This latest development follows a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who asserted that there is now only one Shiv Sena under Eknath Shinde's leadership. Speaking at a public event in Kolhapur, Shah noted that while people previously referred to the factions as "Shiv Sena-Shinde group," there is now no faction within the party, which stands united under Shinde.