• Source:JND

Maharashtra Politics: Just before the Shiv Sena's 60th foundation day, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has gained a major political advantage. The preparations of six Lok Sabha MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) to join the Shinde faction are being referred to in political circles as 'Operation Tiger.' The development is believed to have not only weakened the Uddhav Thackeray camp but also strengthened Shinde's position within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra.

Not Just A Defection, But A Show Of Strength

Following the rebellion within the Shiv Sena in 2022, Shinde gained control of the party organisation and election symbol. However, after the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, Devendra Fadnavis assumed the post of chief minister and Shinde became his deputy, creating the perception that his political influence was no longer the same.

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How Shinde's Stature Will Grow In NDA

Now, with six MPs set to join the Shinde faction, the picture appears to be changing. Following this, several Shiv Sena leaders have publicly demanded that Shinde be re-elected as Chief Minister.

Increased Strength In The Lok Sabha

If all the MPs officially join the Shinde faction, the Shiv Sena's number of MPs in the Lok Sabha could increase from 7 to 13. This would bring Shinde's party on par with key NDA allies such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) (16) and Janata Dal (United) (12). Political analysts believe that the increased numbers in Parliament will enable Shinde to play a more influential role in ministerial positions, policy issues, and coalition politics with the central government.

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Impact On Maharashtra Politics

After the 2022 split, it was often said that Shinde had control of the organisation, but emotionally and traditionally Shiv Sainiks and many public representatives remain with Uddhav Thackeray. Recent developments appear to challenge this perception. The shift of MPs who won the 2024 Lok Sabha elections toward the Shinde faction indicates that many leaders find it more politically beneficial and ideologically suitable to remain with the ruling party.

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Equations within the Mahayuti could change. The BJP is the largest party in the Maharashtra government, and CM Fadnavis is considered the government's main face. However, the Shinde faction's growing strength in the Lok Sabha could give them additional political weight within the coalition. Now, Shinde can claim that his party is contributing significantly not only to the state government but also to the strengthening of the NDA at the Centre.

Battle for Bal Thackeray's Legacy

Both factions of the Shiv Sena have consistently claimed that they are the true inheritors of Balasaheb Thackeray's political and ideological legacy. In such a scenario, every major defection strengthens Shinde's claim that a large section of the party and the elected leadership stand with him. The timing of these MPs' move to the Shinde camp is also considered significant, as this development occurred around the Shiv Sena's foundation day, when both factions were trying to demonstrate their strength.

However, despite his political gains, Shinde faces challenges. The BJP remains the most influential party in Maharashtra and national politics.

(With Jagran.com Inputs)


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