Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde has intensified political speculation surrounding the reported “Operation Tiger” by taking a sharp swipe at the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) faction.
Speaking at a public event in Mumbai, Shinde remarked that “a wolf wearing a tiger’s skin does not become a tiger,” a statement widely interpreted as a criticism of his former party colleagues amid reports of a fresh rebellion within the Uddhav camp.
Shinde’s Sharp Remark
Addressing supporters, Shinde recalled the political tensions that preceded the 2022 Shiv Sena split.
“A wolf wearing a tiger’s skin does not become a tiger. Four years ago, these same people threatened me, saying I would have to pass through Worli to enter Mumbai. Does anyone own Mumbai?” he said.
The statement comes as reports suggest that several Shiv Sena-UBT MPs are preparing to switch allegiance to the Shinde-led faction.
What Is ‘Operation Tiger’?
“Operation Tiger” is the term being used in political circles to describe a possible large-scale defection from the Shiv Sena-UBT faction.
According to sources, six Lok Sabha MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray camp have reportedly expressed support for Eknath Shinde and may formally join his faction in the coming days.
The development is being viewed as the biggest challenge faced by Shiv Sena-UBT since the dramatic split of 2022.
Rebel MPs Under Spotlight
The MPs reportedly linked to the rebellion include:
- Nagesh Ashtikar
- Sanjay Deshmukh
- Sanjay Jadhav
- Sanjay Dina Patil
- Omprakash Rajenimbalkar
- Bhausaheb Wakchaure
Speculation intensified after the six MPs skipped an important parliamentary party meeting convened by the Shiv Sena-UBT leadership in New Delhi despite a party whip.
Only three Lok Sabha MPs from the faction attended the meeting:
- Arvind Sawant
- Anil Desai
- Rajabhau Waje
Delhi Meeting Fuels Defection Rumours
Reports indicate that several rebel MPs were recently seen with Shiv Sena national coordinator Abhishek Verma at a hotel in New Delhi.
Sources suggest the MPs may be staying at an undisclosed location while discussions continue regarding their future political move.
A formal announcement is expected after procedural formalities are completed.
Possible Meeting With Amit Shah
Sources also claim that Eknath Shinde is likely to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi to discuss the evolving political situation and the reported defections.
While neither side has officially confirmed details, the meeting has further fuelled speculation surrounding Operation Tiger.
Echoes Of The 2022 Shiv Sena Split
The current developments have revived memories of the 2022 political upheaval when Eknath Shinde led a rebellion against then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, taking a majority of Shiv Sena MLAs with him.
The revolt resulted in the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government and eventually led to Shinde becoming Chief Minister with BJP support.
Political observers believe the latest developments could significantly alter Maharashtra’s political landscape if the reported defections materialise.
What Happens Next?
If the rebel MPs officially join the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, it could further weaken the Uddhav Thackeray faction at the national level and strengthen Shinde’s claim as the dominant force within the Shiv Sena.
For now, all eyes remain on Delhi as Maharashtra politics braces for another potentially dramatic chapter.