Shinde’s Meeting With UBT MPs Fuels Defection Buzz
A fresh political storm appears to be brewing in Maharashtra after reports emerged that several Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs are in touch with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The development has sparked speculation about a possible shift in loyalties within the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction, though no official defection has been announced so far.
The political buzz intensified after Eknath Shinde reportedly held a late-night meeting with six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs in New Delhi. The meeting has triggered discussions about the future of the party and raised concerns within the Uddhav camp about potential changes in its parliamentary strength.
Shinde Meets UBT MPs In Delhi
According to reports, Eknath Shinde met six Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs during a late-night gathering in the national capital. The meeting immediately drew attention due to the ongoing rivalry between the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Uddhav Thackeray faction.
Sources quoted in the reports suggested that the discussions were politically significant, though neither side publicly disclosed the details of the conversation.
The meeting comes at a time when political observers have been closely watching relations between the two Sena factions, which have remained bitter rivals since the party split in 2022.
Speculation Over Possible Defections
Reports indicate that some MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray camp may be exploring their political options. This has led to speculation that a few leaders could eventually move closer to the Shinde faction.
However, it is important to note that no MP has officially announced a defection, and no formal crossover has taken place as of now.
The reports rely largely on political sources and discussions within party circles, making the situation fluid and subject to change.

Operation Tiger Buzz Returns
The latest developments have once again brought attention to what political circles are calling “Operation Tiger”—a term being used to describe efforts aimed at attracting leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) to Eknath Shinde’s camp.
While there has been no official confirmation of any such operation, the phrase has gained traction following reports of outreach efforts and meetings involving leaders from both sides.
The Delhi meeting has further fueled these discussions, with many viewing it as a sign of ongoing political negotiations.
Challenge For Uddhav Thackeray
For Uddhav Thackeray, the reports come as a fresh political challenge. Since the split in Shiv Sena and the formation of the Shinde-led government, the former Maharashtra Chief Minister has worked to maintain unity within his faction.
Any future defection by sitting MPs could impact the party’s strength and influence, especially at the national level.
As a result, leaders within Shiv Sena (UBT) are closely monitoring the situation and staying in contact with party representatives.
No Official Confirmation Yet
Despite widespread speculation, neither Shiv Sena (UBT) nor the Shinde faction has officially confirmed that any MP is preparing to switch sides.
Political analysts believe that meetings between leaders from rival camps are not uncommon and do not necessarily guarantee a defection.
Until a formal announcement is made, the reports remain part of an evolving political story rather than a confirmed split.
Maharashtra Politics Back In Focus
The latest developments have once again placed Maharashtra politics in the national spotlight. The rivalry between Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde continues to shape the state’s political landscape, and any movement of elected representatives is likely to attract significant attention.
For now, all eyes remain on the next moves of the MPs involved and whether the speculation surrounding the Delhi meeting eventually translates into concrete political action.