Three Sena (UBT) MPs Reaffirm Loyalty to Uddhav Amid 'Operation Tiger' Buzz
In a significant show of solidarity, three Lok Sabha members of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction have publicly reaffirmed their loyalty to party chief Uddhav Thackeray. This comes amid swirling speculation about a secret operation, dubbed 'Operation Tiger', allegedly aimed at engineering defections from the Thackeray-led camp.
The MPs who have pledged their allegiance are Anil Desai (Mumbai South Central), Arvind Sawant (Mumbai South), and Rajabhau Waze (Nashik). Their statements are seen as a direct counter to rumors that several party lawmakers were in touch with the rival Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Political observers note that the reaffirmation is crucial for Uddhav Thackeray as he seeks to consolidate his position ahead of upcoming elections. 'Operation Tiger' has been a buzzword in Maharashtra political circles, with unconfirmed reports suggesting attempts to poach Sena (UBT) legislators.
Anil Desai, in a statement, said, "Our loyalty is with Uddhav Thackeray ji and the ideals of Balasaheb Thackeray. No amount of pressure or inducement can break our unity." Arvind Sawant echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the party remains united under Thackeray's leadership. Rajabhau Waze also dismissed the defection rumors as baseless.
The development highlights the ongoing power struggle within the Shiv Sena, which split into two factions in 2022. While the Shinde faction controls the state government, the Thackeray faction retains significant support among party workers and some elected representatives.
As the political drama unfolds in Maharashtra, all eyes are on the next moves by both factions. The reaffirmation by these three MPs is likely to boost morale within the UBT camp and send a strong message to those contemplating a switch.
