Mumbai, Jan 13 (NationPress) NCP leader Nawab Malik on Tuesday accused the BJP, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the MNS of manipulating the civic body elections and exploiting public emotions, asserting that voters recognize that genuine issues are being overlooked by these political entities.

The Municipal Corporation elections in Maharashtra are set for January 15, with results to be disclosed the next day, January 16. Tuesday marks the final campaigning day.

Malik, a prominent figure in the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, expressed optimism regarding his party's electoral performance, stating, "Our candidates are diligently working throughout various regions and exerting all their efforts... We are confident that our candidates will achieve substantial victories."

In a critique of opposing alliances participating in the civic elections, Malik remarked, "The misuse of religion to manipulate citizens' sentiments during the Mumbai municipal elections is regrettable. They have introduced concepts like 'Jai Shri Ram', burqas, Bangladeshis, immigrants, and even the 'Marathi manus' issue. Overall, it seems there are deliberate attempts to polarize the elections. However, a significant portion of society here remains indifferent to such tactics."

He emphasized that dividing individuals based on caste, religion, region, or language is unjust, noting that the forthcoming results will demonstrate that these matters are "trivial" and lack validity.

"Whether it’s the BJP, Shiv Sena (UBT), or MNS, all are toying with public sentiments, and the core issues are being ignored. Hence, many citizens here yearn for harmony among all societal sections. Everyone—Marathi, South Indian, North Indian, Bengali—has toiled to elevate Mumbai to new heights," he added.

Malik further targeted MNS leader Raj Thackeray for his comments regarding people migrating to Maharashtra from other regions.

Thackeray recently stated that individuals from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should recognize that if Hindi is enforced, "I will kick you." This was followed by remarks from his son, Amit Thackeray, asserting that the MNS would impede the entry of individuals from other states into Maharashtra and would even halt trains.

In response, Malik stated, "The MNS's position is clear to all. At times, he targets South Indians, at other times, North Indians, and occasionally even Muslims. He does not seem to grasp which issues ought to be prioritized to solidify his position. Politics cannot thrive on animosity, hatred, and division, whether directed towards immigrants, Muslims, or anyone else."

"Provide people with guidance and initiatives. If you speak about Marathi youth, discuss how they will secure jobs, how their education will be enhanced, and how their issues will be addressed. Issue-based politics garners enduring support. Politics founded merely on emotions cannot endure, and people must recognize this," he concluded.

Malik also took issue with BJP leader K. Annamalai for his statement that Mumbai is not merely the capital of Maharashtra but the financial capital of the nation and deserves to be managed by the "appropriate individuals."

"Annamalai should exercise caution. Madras is now Chennai. First, go there and assert that you will continue to call it Madras. Once a name has been legally altered, it is inappropriate to ignite controversy over it," Malik remarked.