Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP has nominated former minister Nawab Malik from the Mankhurd Shivajinagar constituency, brushing aside objections from ally BJP. The BJP warned they would not support Malik’s campaign, citing alleged links to underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim.
Nomination Amid BJP’s Protest
On Tuesday, Malik filed his nomination, becoming the official NCP candidate for Mankhurd Shivajinagar. Malik, currently the legislator from Anushakti Nagar, will now run against Samajwadi Party’s Abu Azmi in Mankhurd Shivajinagar. His daughter, Sana Malik, filed her nomination Monday for the Anushakti Nagar seat.
Malik thanked NCP leaders Ajit Pawar, Praful Patel, and Sunil Tatkare for the nomination, expressing confidence in his victory and support from voters.
BJP’s Stand Against Malik
Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar voiced strong opposition, stating the BJP will not support Malik’s candidacy due to his alleged ties with the underworld. Malik, who served as a minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, was arrested in 2022 on money laundering charges. He is currently out on medical bail.
Malik joined Ajit Pawar’s faction in June 2023, following Pawar’s split from his uncle, Sharad Pawar.
