A major political setback has hit Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) after six of its nine Lok Sabha MPs formally joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The move comes days after the rebel MPs skipped a crucial parliamentary party meeting, fuelling speculation of a split. Addressing the media, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde celebrated the induction, saying, "Not one, but six tigers are present here with me today. We have hit a six." Shinde described the development as a "second revolt" and claimed it reflected growing support for his leadership and ideology. Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray has convened a key meeting amid reports of an alleged "Operation Tiger" aimed at triggering more defections.

A coaching centre in Lucknow's Aliganj broke into a massive fire triggering panic among students and residents. Dramatic visuals showed thick smoke and flames engulfing the building as some students reportedly jumped from upper floors in a desperate bid to save their lives. Fire officials rushed multiple fire tenders to the scene while rescue operations continued amid fears that several people could still be trapped inside. Injured students were shifted to hospitals as emergency services battled the blaze.