MUMBAI, June 29

Maharashtra’s political landscape remains on edge amid continued speculation of a possible fresh split within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction. Reports suggest that following the recent defection of six Members of Parliament (MPs) to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, efforts may now be underway to consolidate a breakaway group of MLAs in what some political circles are calling “Operation Tiger 3.0.”

Political discussions have intensified over claims that 14 legislators from the Thackeray faction are in advanced talks with the ruling alliance. This number is seen as politically significant, as it would meet the two-thirds threshold of the faction’s total strength of 20 MLAs in the State Assembly, potentially allowing a split under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution and circumvent the provisions of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution (Anti-Defection Law).
The speculation gained momentum after Shiv Sena minister Gulabrao Patil claimed that “Operation Tiger 3.0” had already begun and that 14 MLAs were expected to join the Deputy Chief Minister’s camp.

However, other senior leaders within the Shinde faction, including minister Uday Samant, have officially denied the existence of any such "operation," maintaining that while several opposition MLAs have expressed interest in joining their party out of their own will, no formal 'takeover' bid is being orchestrated.

The Thackeray faction has faced a series of setbacks recently, with six of its Lok Sabha members crossing over to the ruling alliance.' Uddhav Thackeray has since embarked on a state-wide tour to connect with party cadres and reinforce support in the constituencies of the rebel MPs.

Meanwhile, the ruling Mahayuti coalition views the possible realignments as part of a broader political shift, with some leaders suggesting that legislators are aligning with the party in power to ensure greater access to development funds for their constituencies.

The developments come at a sensitive juncture during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the State Legislature. As political manoeuvring continues behind the scenes, both the ruling alliance and the opposition are closely monitoring proceedings, with analysts suggesting that any formal move by the MLAs would significantly alter the state's power dynamics and further marginalize the opposition's strength in the House.

While official confirmations remain elusive, the atmosphere in Mumbai’s political corridors remains highly volatile as the state awaits clarity on these high-stakes developments.

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