Omprakash Tiwari, Mumbai: Signs of another major political shakeup might be coming in Maharashtra. “Operation Tiger”, a strategic effort by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena to draw leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) into the BJP-led NDA camp, is reportedly said to be entering its decisive phase. According to claims, the campaign could trigger a significant realignment within the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction.
Kripal Tumane, a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) from the Shinde faction, made an explosive claim on Monday. According to Tumane, during the parliamentary party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday at his private Mumbai residence, 'Matoshree', several Lok Sabha MPs failed to show up in person. Among those absentees, two MPs are reportedly in direct contact with the Shinde camp.
'7 of 9 MPs may switch' claims Kripal Tumane
Expanding on his remarks, Tumane alleged that as many as seven of the nine Lok Sabha MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) could shift allegiance to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena ahead of the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament. He also suggested that the plan has been carefully structured to avoid complications under anti-defection provisions.
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16 of 20 MLAs may also defect
Tumane further claimed that the expected political realignment would not be limited to Parliament. He suggested that the impact could extend to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly as well, with up to 16 of the 20 Shiv Sena (UBT) MLAs likely to switch sides during or soon after the monsoon session.
Uddhav Thackeray Holds Emergency Meeting at Matoshree
Amid these developments, Uddhav Thackeray reportedly convened an urgent meeting with his Lok Sabha MPs at ‘Matoshree’ on Sunday in an effort to assess the situation and consolidate support. However, the meeting itself became a point of concern for the party, as only four of the nine MPs were physically present.
While senior leader Sanjay Raut sought to dismiss speculation, stating that the remaining MPs had joined virtually and that there was no sign of internal dissent. Despite this, political observers noted the absences as potentially significant amid growing reports of unrest.
Uddhav Thackeray’s Ultimatum to His MPs
Sensing the wavering loyalty of his closest aides and MPs, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has taken a sharp and emotional stance. During Sunday's meeting, he issued a clear ultimatum to his MPs, stating:
"Anyone who wants to leave the party is free to go. I will not force anyone to stay."
Expressing both his current vulnerability and his aggressive intent for the future, Thackeray added, "It is true that time is not on our side right now and the circumstances are adverse. But remember, when our time comes back, those who are abandoning the party in its hour of crisis will deeply regret their decision."
At the same time, the rapid developments and the ongoing 'Operation Tiger' have raised alarm bells within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition. Political analysts believe that if Kripal Tumane’s claims turn out to be true, it will deal another devastating political blow to Uddhav Thackeray ahead of the upcoming elections.