Mumbai: Political circles in Maharashtra continue to witness intense discussions over the so-called “Operation Tiger” amid speculation about possible shifts in party loyalties. Against this backdrop, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC firmly denied allegations that the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena was attempting to engineer defections from rival parties, asserting that the party’s focus remains on development and public welfare.
Addressing reporters in Mumbai, Shaina NC said there was no agenda to weaken or split any political organization. She emphasized that the Shiv Sena’s growing support base was the result of its governance approach and the popularity of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
“We have no interest in breaking any party,” Shaina said, adding that the public’s support for Shinde stems from his direct engagement with people and his grassroots style of leadership. In a veiled criticism of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, she remarked that Shinde remains actively connected with citizens and works among the people.
Rejecting the narrative surrounding the alleged political operation, Shaina described the current political atmosphere as one focused on development rather than defections.
“There is no Operation Tiger. What is happening is Operation Progress,” she stated, suggesting that the increasing number of individuals joining the Shiv Sena reflects confidence in the party’s leadership and governance model.
According to her, the steady influx of supporters into the party indicates a broader sentiment across Maharashtra in favor of progress-oriented politics. She argued that people are choosing to associate themselves with the Shiv Sena because of its developmental agenda and commitment to addressing public concerns.
The remarks come at a time when Maharashtra’s political landscape is witnessing renewed speculation regarding possible realignments ahead of future elections. Reports circulating in political circles have suggested that several Members of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) camp could be considering a move to the Eknath Shinde-led faction, triggering widespread debate.
However, leaders of Shiv Sena (UBT) have strongly denied such claims and maintained that the party remains united.
Responding to the speculation, Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut dismissed reports of any internal crisis and asserted that the party’s leadership and parliamentary wing remain intact.
Speaking after a meeting chaired by Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai, Raut rejected suggestions that lawmakers were preparing to switch sides. Instead, he claimed that the party was fully united and capable of responding politically to any challenges.
“What Operation Tiger are you talking about? We are all tigers,” Raut said while addressing the media. He further added that his party was preparing its own political strategy, referring to it as “Operation Wolf.”
The statement was widely viewed as a direct response to the rumours surrounding alleged efforts to attract leaders from the UBT camp into the ruling alliance.
Raut also clarified that a meeting of the party’s Members of Parliament held in Mumbai was part of a routine organizational exercise and should not be interpreted as a reaction to ongoing political speculation.
According to the UBT leader, all nine Members of Parliament associated with the party participated in the meeting. While four leaders attended physically, the remaining members joined virtually through video conferencing.
He stressed that the meeting was aimed at discussing organizational matters and future political planning rather than addressing concerns over defections.
The gathering at Matoshree, the residence of Uddhav Thackeray, attracted significant attention due to the ongoing rumours. Political observers closely monitored attendance at the meeting, leading to speculation when some lawmakers were not immediately visible.
Reacting to such reports, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Dina Patil dismissed the claims and clarified that there was no reason to question the commitment of party MPs.
“Why won’t I attend? I have come. People can say anything,” Patil told reporters, rejecting suggestions of internal differences.
The controversy highlights the continued political rivalry between the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), which emerged following the dramatic split in the party in 2022. Since then, both factions have been engaged in a battle for political influence, voter support and organizational strength across Maharashtra.
With local body elections and future electoral contests expected to shape the state’s political trajectory, every development involving party leaders and lawmakers is drawing heightened scrutiny.
While the ruling Mahayuti alliance projects confidence and points to growing public support, the opposition camp insists that reports of defections are exaggerated and politically motivated.
For now, both sides continue to trade political barbs, with one camp talking about “Operation Progress” and the other countering with “Operation Wolf.” Despite the rhetoric, the evolving political equations in Maharashtra are likely to remain a major point of discussion in the months ahead as parties prepare for upcoming electoral battles.