NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar on Sunday claimed that a major party within Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti alliance could soon attempt to engineer defections within its own ranks, rather than targeting the Opposition.
In a post on social media, Pawar said there was “credible information” suggesting that by the end of next month, a “big party in power” may shift its focus towards its own allies, in an apparent reference to the BJP.
The Mahayuti government in Maharashtra is led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and comprises the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and the NCP faction headed by Sunetra Pawar.
Pawar’s remarks come amid speculation about alleged efforts to poach Opposition leaders, including reports of a supposed ‘Operation Tiger’ by the Shiv Sena aimed at inducing defections from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had earlier dismissed such reports as baseless and sensational.
However, Pawar maintained that the real threat may lie within the ruling alliance itself. “While the BJP may project unwavering support for its allies today, the situation could change, leaving partners feeling betrayed,” he said.
He cautioned smaller allies to remain vigilant to avoid becoming targets of internal political manoeuvring.
The NCP (SP) leader also alleged that recent controversies, including the case involving self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, were not accidental but part of a larger, orchestrated narrative, calling it “just the beginning”.
Kharat, based in Nashik, has been arrested in multiple cases, including allegations of sexual assault. His photographs with several political leaders have surfaced in recent days, sparking a political controversy in the state.
