In a politically charged move, Nawab Malik, fielded by Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, is staying in the Maharashtra assembly race from Mumbai’s Mankhurd-Shivajinagar constituency, despite BJP’s strong opposition. Malik’s decision to stand his ground has deepened the rift within the Mahayuti alliance, as BJP, though supporting Malik’s daughter Sana Malik in Anushakti Nagar, has refused to back Malik due to his alleged links with Dawood Ibrahim.
Malik, undeterred by BJP’s stance, emphasized that he’s “not a Mahayuti candidate, but a people’s candidate,” declaring that his focus is to serve the people of Mankhurd. In an interview with TV9 Marathi, he stated, “Ajit Pawar will be the kingmaker in these elections. Maharashtra is heading for a tough electoral battle, but Ajit Pawar will play a pivotal role in deciding the next Chief Minister.”
The Mahayuti Rift and BJP’s Stand
Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed frustration over Malik’s candidacy, revealing that NCP submitted Malik’s nomination papers just minutes before the deadline, suggesting hasty decision-making. Fadnavis asserted that the BJP would not support Malik’s campaign due to unresolved allegations but would continue endorsing his daughter Sana Malik’s candidacy in Anushakti Nagar.
NCP leaders, however, remain firm in their support for Malik. Senior NCP leader Praful Patel addressed the media, reiterating that “the allegations against Malik have not been proven yet.” He urged critics to focus on legal outcomes rather than accusations, adding, “Every party has individuals facing various allegations; our stand is clear until proven otherwise.”
Implications for Mahayuti’s Campaign in Mumbai
Malik’s defiance and NCP’s steadfast support could complicate the Mahayuti alliance’s strategy in Mumbai, especially with Shiv Sena’s Suresh Patil running as the coalition’s official candidate from Mankhurd-Shivajinagar. With Malik’s declaration that he aims to win over the constituency’s significant voter base, tensions between Mahayuti allies are poised to escalate as the election race intensifies.
As Maharashtra heads into a crucial election season, Malik’s presence on the ballot underscores the emerging factional dynamics within Mahayuti, with Ajit Pawar’s NCP playing a crucial role in shaping the alliance’s fortunes and possibly determining the next government in Maharashtra.