A fresh political setback has hit Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) after two rebel Members of Parliament formally announced their decision to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, giving fresh momentum to the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance's much-talked-about 'Operation Tiger.' The latest defections have intensified the political battle in Maharashtra, with senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis declaring 'Operation Tiger' a success while Chief Minister Eknath Shinde hinted that even more political surprises are on the way, saying the public would soon receive "breaking news." Hingoli MP Nagesh Patil-Ashtikar defended his decision, insisting that he had merely moved "from one Shiv Sena to another." He also cited a lack of development funds and recent remarks from the Uddhav camp as reasons behind his exit, saying there was "no point in staying." Meanwhile, Omraje Nimbalkar's decision came shortly after the verdict in the Pawanraje murder case. WATCH

A shocking incident in Dehradun has triggered communal tensions after BJP functionary Vinod was allegedly beaten to death following a dispute over irrigation water. According to reports, the dispute began over watering an adjacent field and quickly escalated into a violent confrontation. Police say a large group armed with lathis, hammers and other weapons allegedly attacked Vinod and his family, leaving him dead and several relatives critically injured.The FIR names key accused including Aman Ali, Imtiaz, Razzak, Yunus and Shahbaz, while several other individuals have also been booked. The killing sparked protests, stone-pelting, arson and demands for strict action.