Political Speculations Rise in Maharashtra Over 'Operation Tiger'
Political tensions in Maharashtra are escalating as rumors about 'Operation Tiger' circulate. The Shinde faction claims contact with several Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena legislators, while the Uddhav faction refutes these claims. This comes after a recent defection of MPs and a low turnout at a coalition meeting, raising questions about party unity. As both sides navigate these developments, the political landscape remains charged with uncertainty and speculation about future alignments.
| Jun 26, 2026, 15:43 IST
Political Tensions in Maharashtra
Speculations regarding the second phase of 'Operation Tiger' in Maharashtra's political landscape have resurfaced. The Shiv Sena faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde claims that several legislators from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) are in contact with them. However, the Uddhav faction has dismissed these assertions as baseless. This development poses a significant setback for Thackeray, especially after six MPs recently defected from his faction to join Shinde's group.
According to sources, a few days ago, three to four legislators from Shiv Sena (UBT) met with Eknath Shinde and indicated that a group of 12 to 14 legislators is interested in joining his faction. Nonetheless, neither side has officially confirmed this alleged meeting.
Recent Developments and Reactions
This situation emerged shortly after the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) called a meeting of its legislators. Out of the coalition's 60 members, only 37 attended the meeting. Later, the MVA clarified that many legislators were unable to participate due to personal commitments and prior engagements. The absence of several members has fueled further speculation regarding 'Operation Tiger,' a term used to describe the alleged attempts to poach legislators from the Uddhav faction. The discussions intensified when some MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) recently decided to support Shinde's faction.
The Shinde faction now claims that 14 to 16 out of 20 legislators from Shiv Sena (UBT) are in touch with them. However, Shinde and his leaders emphasize that they are not attempting to lure legislators away; rather, the legislators are reaching out to them. They have also hinted that more legislators may join their faction in the coming days. In response to these claims, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated that all party legislators are in contact with Uddhav Thackeray and refuted the rumors of a split within the party. He mentioned that those who did not attend the MVA meeting had previously informed the leadership about their absence for personal reasons.