Wed Oct 30 15:47:12 UTC 2024: ## NCP’s Malik’s Candidacy in Maharashtra Election Sparks Tension Within Maha Vikas Aghadi

**Mumbai:** The political landscape in Maharashtra has heated up with the recent announcement of NCP leader Nawab Malik’s candidature from the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency. This last-minute move by NCP (Ajit Pawar) has caused friction within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, as both the BJP and the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are against Malik’s candidature.

“If the BJP or the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) opposes me, it is not a concern for us,” Malik stated, emphasizing his confidence in winning the constituency. He highlighted that the people had invited him to contest, demonstrating their trust and support. He further asserted that neither the NCP nor he would compromise on their ideology, emphasizing their commitment to secularism and democratic principles.

The BJP, however, has voiced its strong opposition to Malik’s candidacy, with Mumbai unit president Ashish Shelar calling him “connected to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim”. The party has vehemently rejected the idea of supporting any individual associated with such elements.

The latest development has sparked concerns within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, with some speculating that the BJP might extend support to the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) in this constituency. This situation further complicates the already tense political climate ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections scheduled for November 20th.

While Malik maintains confidence in his victory, the BJP’s stance and the potential for alliance within the Maha Vikas Aghadi pose significant challenges. The upcoming election is expected to be highly contested, particularly in the context of Ajit Pawar’s leadership and the BJP’s aggressive campaign strategy.

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