Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), has summoned all party MLAs for a key meeting in Mumbai on June 22 [1].
The move comes as the party faces intense speculation regarding an internal split. If a significant number of lawmakers defect, it could destabilize the party's legislative standing and shift the political balance in Maharashtra.
The urgency follows rumors of a coordinated defection effort dubbed “Operation Tiger” [1]. Reports suggest that at least seven MPs of Shiv Sena (UBT) are likely to join the faction led by Eknath Shinde [1]. Such a move would represent a major blow to Thackeray's leadership and the party's influence in the upper house.
Sanjay Raut, the party spokesperson, has denied any rift within the organization. Raut said the party remains united despite the ongoing speculation. To counter the narrative of a split, Thackeray previously held a meeting with the party's parliamentary representatives [2].
According to some reports, all nine Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs attended that meeting [2]. This attendance is being cited by party loyalists as evidence that the rumors of a mass exodus are unfounded. However, the decision to call a separate meeting for all MLAs on June 22 [1] suggests that the leadership remains concerned about potential instability within the state assembly.
The political atmosphere in Mumbai remains tense as the party attempts to solidify its ranks. The outcome of the upcoming meeting will likely determine whether “Operation Tiger” is a genuine threat or a strategic rumor designed to create internal friction.
“Uddhav Thackeray summoned all party MLAs for a key meeting in Mumbai on June 22.”
The potential defection of lawmakers under 'Operation Tiger' reflects the ongoing volatility of Maharashtra's political landscape. Because the Shiv Sena (UBT) is fighting to maintain its identity and legislative strength against the Shinde faction, any loss of MPs or MLAs could diminish Thackeray's leverage in future coalition negotiations and weaken the party's presence in the state assembly.
