'Op Devendra' vs 'can't clip my wings': Uddhav-Fadnavis faceoff amid Sena rebellion

A political spat has erupted in Maharashtra between Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, centered on accusations of political maneuvering and potential prime ministerial aspirations. Thackeray alleged that the recent defection of six Shiv Sena MPs loyal to him was orchestrated as 'Operation Devendra,' a move he believes was designed to keep Fadnavis in check and prevent him from emerging as a strong contender for the prime minister's post.

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The MPs were taken away when there were no elections. Why did they not join the BJP? I suspect this is actually 'Operation Devendra'.

Fadnavis, responding to Thackeray's claims, dismissed the notion of being targeted, stating, “I am a human being. I don't have wings, so who can clip them? I have the blessings of Maharashtra's 14 crore people and my senior leaders, so there is no need to worry.” His remarks suggest confidence in his political standing and support base.

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I am a human being. I don't have wings, so who can clip them? I have the blessings of Maharashtra's 14 crore people and my senior leaders, so there is no need to worry.

Adding another layer to the exchange, Thackeray recounted a shared flight experience with Fadnavis, describing the chief minister as appearing “helpless” and lacking confidence. Thackeray drew a parallel with the sidelining of Shivraj Singh Chauhan in Madhya Pradesh, suggesting Fadnavis is on a similar path within the BJP. He characterized the operation to lure away the MPs not as 'Operation Tiger' but as 'Operation Devendra,' aimed at diminishing Fadnavis's stature.

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Like Shivraj Singh Chauhan was sidelined despite the BJP winning in Madhya Pradesh only because of him, Fadnavis too is on the way to being sidelined.

Fadnavis, however, appeared amused by Thackeray's observations about the flight. He told reporters that he was occupied with watching downloaded content on his phone throughout the journey and questioned when Thackeray had observed his alleged helplessness. He dismissed the intense speculation surrounding the shared flight as "vedyancha bazaar" (mad market), emphasizing that leaders traveling on the same flight is not unusual. Fadnavis also lightly acknowledged Thackeray's "good wishes," implying a dismissive stance towards the criticism.

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I have a habit. Whenever I board a flight I watch a movie or OTT, or web series that is downloaded on my phone. That is what I was doing throughout the duration of the flight. So, when did he see my helplessness?