'Operation Tiger' complete: Shinde poaches six MPs from Uddhav Sena, formalising split

The six rebel Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs joined the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in his presence on Monday in Mumbai. Welcoming the rebel MPs, the Shiv Sena leaders said that ‘Operation Tiger’ is accomplished. This development marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Maharashtra, with the Shiv Sena now formally split. The move is being portrayed as a continuation of Shinde's 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray, which initially split the Shiv Sena and eventually led to Shinde becoming the chief minister. The Shiv Sena leaders have expressed their support for Shinde, stating that the rebel MPs have joined the party. The development is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape of Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena, under Shinde's leadership, is likely to emerge as a major force in the state's politics. The formalisation of the split is expected to lead to a realignment of political forces in the state. The Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, led by Uddhav Thackeray, is likely to face significant challenges in the wake of this development. The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena is expected to consolidate its position in the state's politics. The rebel MPs who joined the Shiv Sena are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the party's future strategy. The Shiv Sena leaders have welcomed the rebel MPs, stating that their joining the party marks a significant milestone in the party's history.