In a significant political development in Maharashtra, six rebel Lok Sabha MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) camp formally joined the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister on Monday. The induction took place in Mumbai in Shinde’s presence, with party leaders announcing that the much-discussed ‘Operation Tiger’ has been successfully concluded.
Welcoming the MPs, Shinde said their decision reflects the strengthening of the Shiv Sena and the continued appeal of the ideology of . He described the development as the second phase of a political movement that began on June 22, 2022, aimed at safeguarding the party’s principles, legacy, and its traditional bow-and-arrow symbol.
Shinde emphasized that Shiv Sainiks who believe in Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision eventually unite under the Shiv Sena banner. According to him, the MPs took their decision after consultations with party workers and the public in their respective constituencies, with development emerging as their central agenda.
Praising the newly inducted MPs, Shinde said Sanjay Bandu Jadhav is a committed grassroots leader, while Sanjay Dina Patil is known for his fearless stand for the common people. He referred to Omraje Nimbalkar as a dynamic political figure with strong public connect.
Shinde further said Sanjay Deshmukh’s dedication and hard work would now find a wider platform within the party. He also described Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Bhausaheb Wakchoure as leaders with firm resolve, calling them “tigers” both in local politics and at the grassroots level.
“These leaders have not joined the Shiv Sena for personal gain. Their focus is on constituency development, justice for party workers, and addressing public concerns,” Shinde added.
Meanwhile, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance registered an overwhelming victory in the biennial elections to the , winning 16 of the 17 seats contested. An Independent candidate secured the remaining seat from Nashik.
The : won 11 seats, while its allies — Shiv Sena and the NCP — secured three and two seats respectively. The Independent winner later joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena as an associate member, further strengthening the ruling alliance.