Eknath Shinde Dismisses Claims of Secret Meeting with UBT MPs
Synopsis
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Eknath Shinde firmly denies media claims of a secret meeting with Uddhav Thackeray's MPs, calling them baseless rumors aimed at creating confusion. His statement follows allegations of potential defections, which were categorically rejected by involved parties.
Key Takeaways
Eknath Shinde denies media allegations of a secret meeting.
Claims described as baseless and malicious .
Several UBT MPs affirm their loyalty to Uddhav Thackeray.
No formal 'Operation Tiger' currently underway.
The political situation remains tense in Maharashtra.
Mumbai, April 10 (NationPress) Eknath Shinde, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and leader of the Shiv Sena, firmly rejected recent media claims of a clandestine meeting with Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction on Friday.
In a pointed declaration, Deputy CM Shinde stated, “The allegations concerning a supposed meeting with Shiv Sena(UBT) MPs are entirely false, malicious, and aimed at generating confusion. No such meeting has occurred. For the last eighteen months, rumors have circulated regarding UBT MPs potentially defecting to our side, but these claims are baseless. The media should refrain from broadcasting such sensationalist reports.”
Shinde's clarification follows media assertions that seven MPs from the Shiv Sena(UBT) faction had been in communication with him. These reports, which hinted at a covert operation dubbed “Operation Tiger,” caused a stir in the political arena of the state before being categorically denied by all parties involved.
Media sources suggested that an undisclosed meeting took place on Wednesday night in Thane, alleging that Shinde’s convoy made an unexpected route change to allow for a private discussion that extended into the early hours of Thursday. It was reported that both Deputy CM Shinde and his son, MP Shrikant Shinde, were present.
Several UBT MPs were reportedly offered the opportunity to join the Shinde-led faction. The media named individuals such as Arvind Sawant, Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, and Rajabhau Waje, with others like Omraje Nimbalkar purportedly participating via video call.
In the wake of the uproar, numerous leaders from the Shiv Sena(UBT) publicly refuted the claims.
Arvind Sawant (Mumbai South) vehemently denied the meeting and reaffirmed his allegiance to Uddhav Thackeray, asserting he would never align with Deputy CM Shinde.
Omraje Nimbalkar (Dharashiv) challenged the media to provide photographic proof, stating, “Having served two terms as an MP, these rumors have followed me for years. I won’t even dignify this false news with a response.”
Sanjay Jadhav (Parbhani) clarified via phone that he had been in Pune for the past two days and had no dealings with the Shinde camp.
Nagesh Patil Ashtikar (Hingoli) confirmed he was not present at any such gathering and was unaware of any such incident.
Similarly, Sanjay Deshmukh (Yavatmal-Washim) mentioned he had not received any invitation and was absent from the alleged meeting, whether in person or online.
This situation arises shortly after Uddhav Thackeray convened a meeting at his residence, 'Matoshree', where all UBT MPs reportedly reaffirmed their steadfast loyalty to the party.
While there are whispers of potential shifts occurring behind the scenes to attract UBT leaders, the Shinde camp maintains that no formal “Operation Tiger” is in progress. At this point, what seems to be a “political earthquake” appears more like a media-induced tremor.
Point of View
Eknath Shinde's categorical denial of secret meetings highlights the ongoing tensions within Maharashtra's political landscape. As allegations swirl, it remains crucial to discern fact from speculation, ensuring a balanced understanding of the evolving situation.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Eknath Shinde say about the alleged secret meeting?
Eknath Shinde described the claims of a secret meeting with UBT MPs as baseless and malicious, aimed at creating misunderstandings.
Who were the alleged participants in the meeting?
Media reports suggested that seven UBT MPs were in contact with Shinde, with names including Arvind Sawant and Sanjay Dina Patil mentioned.
What was the response from the UBT MPs?
Several UBT MPs denied the claims, emphasizing their loyalty to Uddhav Thackeray and requesting proof of the alleged meeting.
What is 'Operation Tiger'?
Operation Tiger was mentioned in media reports as a covert operation involving potential defections of UBT MPs to Shinde's faction.
What did Uddhav Thackeray's recent meeting entail?
Uddhav Thackeray held a meeting at his residence, 'Matoshree', where UBT MPs reaffirmed their loyalty to the party.
