Wed Oct 30 13:42:18 UTC 2024: ## NCP’s Malik Enters Maharashtra Election Fray, Sparks Tensions Within Maha Vikas Aghadi

**Mumbai:** The Maharashtra Assembly election campaign has taken a dramatic turn with NCP leader Nawab Malik’s entry as a candidate from the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency. Malik’s nomination, announced by the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar, has caused a stir within the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, as both the BJP and the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are reportedly against it.

Malik, however, has dismissed the opposition, stating that the support of the people is his priority. “The people have invited me to contest these elections. Whether it’s the BJP or the Shiv Sena opposing me, the people’s trust and support are with us. We will win in both constituencies,” he said. He added that his daughter’s constituency is also facing a similar scenario.

Malik further asserted that neither the NCP nor he are willing to compromise on their principles. “We believe in secularism and a democratic system,” he clarified. The election is expected to be tight, with Malik emphasizing that no government can be formed in Maharashtra as long as Ajit Pawar is around.

This move has further intensified the already complex political landscape in Maharashtra. BJP’s Mumbai unit president Ashish Shelar had previously expressed disapproval of Malik’s candidature, citing his alleged links to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. The BJP’s stand has sparked a debate within the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, raising questions about the stability of the alliance.

The upcoming Assembly elections on November 20 are likely to witness a fierce contest between the NCP, BJP, and Shiv Sena. Malik’s nomination adds a new layer of complexity to the existing political dynamics, leaving the outcome uncertain.

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