A new twist has emerged amid buzz over a split in Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) after one of the rebel MPs, Omraje Nimbalkar, was approached by two leaders of Thackeray's group, Varun Sardesai and Kailas Patil, at his residence at midnight.
The UBT leaders reportedly tried to convince Nimbalkar. On Sunday, he deferred the question of joining Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, saying that he would decide after talking to everyone in Dharashiv, his constituency.
While speaking to the media, before leaving for his Lok Sabha constituency, Nimbalkar said, "I have noticed that the general public is interested in the work I am doing. Even though I have not announced my decision yet, various discussions have been going on about me for the last four days. Despite this, some people are dragging my entire family into this and making unnecessary criticism... The verdict in my father's murder case is going to be out soon; we have fought for this fight for 20 years. There is a lot of discussion going on about this matter, too. I just want to say that whatever the situation regarding my political decision, I will announce my decision only after going to Dharashiv and discussing it with everyone."
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He also recalled the start of his political journey after his father's assassination. "My political career began with the political assassination of my father. Political opposition does not end with assassination; on the contrary, it creates new opponents. I have come into politics to prove this point..." said Nimbalkar.
Nagesh Ashtidar confirms switch
Nimbalkar's statement raised uncertainty over the alleged 'Operation Tiger'. However, another rebel MP, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, confirmed the switch to Shinde's Sena. In a video message, he said that he was not upset with Uddhav Thackeray.
He added that he decided because of the distrust and after what was said against the rebel MPs crossed the line. Ashtikar added that he did not decide till June 18, hinting towards abuses and criticism in recent days.
"There are many kinds of discussions going on. First of all, let me make it clear that I am not upset with anyone. Secondly, Uddhav Thackeray gave me a lot of love. Apart from that, Sanjay Raut and others have the right to say what they want; they are our elders and guardians. But at the same time, I would like to say one thing: until the 18th, I had not gone anywhere. However, when the limits of what was being said were crossed and so much distrust was expressed, I felt there was no point in staying any longer. And all of you know that it is difficult to work without being in power. The people elected me with great hopes and expectations. Therefore, that is also a major reason behind the next step I have decided to take..."