In a recent statement, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and candidate from Maharashtra?s Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar constituency, Nawab Malik, addressed accusations regarding his alleged connections with the underworld and the Dawood Ibrahim gang, as well as charges of money laundering. Malik, who has previously held influential positions within the NCP, asserted that the accusations are being unfairly leveraged against him because of his religious background, declaring, ?It is easy to label a Muslim leader as a terrorist.? Malik?s response followed Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis?s announcement that the BJP would refrain from supporting Malik due to the serious allegations against him.

Speaking in an interview with India TV, Malik clarified that the charges against him are financially related, not linked to terrorism. "The allegations of terrorism and underworld connections against me are baseless,? he emphasized, asserting that some factions within the Maharashtra government?s ruling coalition, known as Mahayuti, are aiming to block his candidacy for the upcoming assembly elections.

Additionally, Malik acknowledged the backing he received from NCP chief Ajit Pawar, stating that Pawar?s support during this period is something he ?could never repay.? He added that his alignment with Pawar was not motivated by concerns over potential imprisonment, declaring, "I am never afraid of going to jail. I am not one to say something to someone?s face and something else behind their back."

Despite the ongoing controversy, Malik remains optimistic about his electoral prospects, asserting that the public?s support will lead him to victory. ?In every election, there has been opposition from within the party? Despite all kinds of opposition, we will win this election,? Malik concluded, reiterating his belief that his community and constituents support his candidacy.