In a heated political clash, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya launched a scathing attack on Nawab Malik, accusing him of attempting to “break India into pieces” and labeling him a “terrorist” with links to Dawood Ibrahim. “Nawab Malik is a terrorist who tried to break India into pieces. He is Dawood’s agent,” Somaiya asserted, condemning the NCP for fielding Malik as their candidate for the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency. Somaiya added, “Ajit Pawar’s NCP has betrayed the country by giving a ticket to Nawab Malik.”
BJP Mumbai chief Ashish Shelar also voiced the party’s strong disapproval, emphasizing that “the party has made its stand very clear” regarding Malik’s candidacy, indicating that the BJP will not support Malik in the elections. “We have opposed Nawab Malik’s candidature before, saying he is accused of having links with Dawood Ibrahim,” Shelar reaffirmed, adding that the BJP’s alliance with NCP does not override their objections to Malik’s associations.
Amid this controversy, Malik, a two-time MLA from Anushakti Nagar, initially planned to contest independently due to pressure from BJP and other Mahayuti allies who opposed his nomination. However, NCP ultimately confirmed Malik as their candidate. Malik’s daughter, Sana Malik, is also contesting as an NCP candidate for the Anushakti Nagar seat, highlighting the family’s continued involvement despite these allegations.
The Maharashtra Assembly elections, set for November 20, 2024, are expected to see fierce competition, especially within the Mahayuti alliance, where BJP and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) have clashed on candidate choices and ideological alignment.
