In a significant political statement, Uddhav Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, alleged that the recent split in the party was not an “Operation Tiger” but an “Operation Devendra.” Thackeray claimed that the defection of Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs was a strategic move by internal forces to weaken CM Devendra Fadnavis and prevent him from becoming a potential Prime Ministerial contender. He warned that the defectors would eventually be discarded by the BJP.
Launching a strong counterattack following the departure of six Lok Sabha MPs, Thackeray held a large rally in Hingoli, targeting the rebels and the ruling coalition. He rejected the notion of an “Operation Tiger” led by DCM Shinde, asserting that the actual political scheme was an “Operation Devendra” orchestrated by the BJP to limit Chief Minister Fadnavis’s influence.
Thackeray criticized the logic behind the MPs joining Eknath Shinde’s faction instead of directly merging with the BJP, suggesting a deeper conspiracy within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) aimed at Maharashtra’s leadership. He reassured his supporters that the spirit of Shiv Sena would not be extinguished by the defection of a few lawmakers, emphasizing the party’s strong grassroots foundation.
Expressing deep disappointment over the betrayal by the defected MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar from Hingoli, Thackeray highlighted the distinction between elected representatives and loyal Shiv Sena workers. He accused the defectors of prioritizing personal gains and nepotism, mirroring the BJP’s allegations back at them. Thackeray also criticized the government’s neglect of public issues, contrasting the luxurious lifestyles of leaders with the struggles of ordinary citizens.
