The launch of “Operation Tiger” has brought about a major change in Maharashtra’s political scene since the 2022 rebellion led by Eknath Shinde that divided the Shiv Sena. By orchestrating the defection of six Lok Sabha MPs from the Shiv Sena camp, Shinde has strengthened his position within the state’s power structure significantly.
The defection of these six MPs has dealt a significant blow to the Shiv Sena, which is already facing challenges in maintaining unity within its ranks. This development weakens both the organizational strength and the political narrative of Uddhav Thackeray’s party, posing a serious threat to its survival and influence.
All six defected MPs, who won their seats in the 2024 general elections, had defeated prominent candidates from the MahaYuti alliance. Losing these MPs has diminished Uddhav Sena’s electoral gains in the Lok Sabha, reducing their presence to just three MPs.
Since the 2022 split, the Shiv Sena has based its political narrative on the contrast between “gaddars” (traitors) and “imandaars” (loyalists). However, the recent exodus of MPs indicates a shift towards political pragmatism and changing power dynamics in Maharashtra, undermining the loyalty appeal.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, reacting to the defections, argued that the “gaddar” narrative has failed to resonate with voters. He highlighted his faction’s emergence as a significant political force in the state post-split, emphasizing organizational growth and consolidation in various elections.
Statements by Omraje Nimbalkar have exposed a lack of development funds in Opposition-held constituencies, revealing a vulnerability in the Sena. Without access to power, maintaining grassroots leadership is becoming increasingly challenging for Thackeray.
For Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shinde, the success of “Operation Tiger” provides strategic advantages by consolidating a majority in the state assembly and a dominant block in the Lok Sabha. This strengthens Shinde’s claim over the political legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray.
