Nawab Malik filed his nomination from the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency on Tuesday as an official candidate for the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Malik initially submitted an independent candidacy but received the official NCP “AB form” at the last minute, making him the party’s endorsed candidate. Expressing gratitude for the party’s backing, Malik credited Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Rajya Sabha MP Praful Patel, and senior NCP leader Sunil Tatkare for their support, stating he felt confident in securing victory for the NCP in this significant constituency.
This constituency has a high proportion of Muslim voters and has traditionally been a Samajwadi Party stronghold under MLA Abu Azmi. Malik’s nomination is expected to intensify the competition, as Azmi has held the seat with considerable support from the Muslim community. Malik, who previously served two terms as MLA from the Anushakti Nagar seat, transitioned his focus to Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar due to internal party dynamics and tension within the Mahayuti (grand alliance) regarding his inclusion. The BJP, part of the Mahayuti, has opposed Malik’s candidacy due to his alleged past affiliations, particularly his connection to the NCP’s rivalry with the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction).
Malik’s daughter, Sana Malik Shaikh, has also entered the election fray, representing the NCP in the Anushakti Nagar constituency, further highlighting the family’s commitment to maintaining a political presence across key Mumbai constituencies. The upcoming elections on November 20, with results scheduled for November 23, are expected to be a crucial test for both Malik and the NCP as they navigate a complex political landscape alongside alliances that have seen considerable friction.
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In the 2019 elections, the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Congress each had significant wins across Maharashtra, with 105, 56, and 44 seats, respectively. The outcome of this year’s contest, especially in high-stakes seats like Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar, will provide insight into the electorate’s stance on the shifting alliances and political strategies in Maharashtra.
