Mumbai, July 14 -- In a calculated political move that has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra's political landscape, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has landed in the national capital, marking what could be a decisive phase in the post-'Operation Tiger' political realignment.

The high-stakes visit comes after the success of 'Operation Tiger,' a months-long political manoeuvre that culminated in June, effectively strengthening the Shinde-led Shiv Sena's footprint in the Lok Sabha. By securing the allegiance of six rebel MPs, the Shinde camp has not only bolstered its legislative numbers to 13 but has also firmly cemented its standing within the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

While the focus remain...