Maharashtra’s political tensions escalated further on Tuesday as Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde hinted at more political realignments ahead, warning that the recently executed “Operation Tiger” was only the beginning of further upheavals for the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) camp. His remarks came during a heated session in the Maharashtra Assembly, adding fresh momentum to the ongoing power struggle within the state’s fractured political landscape.

Shinde referred to the recent defection of six Lok Sabha MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, describing it as part of “Operation Tiger,” which he said had already delivered a significant political setback to the opposition. Without directly naming rivals, he suggested that further shifts in allegiance could be expected, stating that the process of political realignment was far from over. His comments triggered strong reactions and intensified speculation about additional defections.

Inside the Assembly, the exchange unfolded amid objections raised by opposition leaders over governance and procedural issues, including the absence of senior cabinet ministers during key discussions. Leaders from opposition parties criticised the government for delegating critical responsibilities to junior ministers, arguing that it weakened legislative accountability. The ruling side, however, defended the arrangement as a procedural necessity approved by the Speaker.

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Responding to the criticism, Shinde asserted that junior ministers were legally empowered to handle specific legislative matters and maintained that both he and the Chief Minister regularly attend major debates. He also accused opposition leaders of political theatrics, urging them to focus on pressing public issues such as farmers’ concerns rather than engaging in what he described as unnecessary confrontations.

Escalating his attack, the Deputy Chief Minister warned opposition leaders that the political consequences of recent developments were still unfolding. He remarked that the opposition camp appeared unsettled and suggested that further “shocks” were imminent, reinforcing perceptions that internal divisions within the Shiv Sena (UBT) could deepen in the coming period.

Outside the Assembly, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray responded sharply, criticising what he called political manoeuvres conducted outside formal legislative processes. He accused the Deputy Chief Minister of focusing on party splits rather than attending proceedings inside the House. The exchange highlights the continuing political friction in Maharashtra, where rivalry between the ruling alliance and the opposition shows no signs of easing.

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