Is Nawab Malik the Key to NCP's BMC Strategy?
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Synopsis
Nawab Malik's return to Mumbai politics is marked by his appointment as the chief of the Election Coordination Committee for the upcoming BMC elections. As he strategizes seat sharing with allies, will he regain his political foothold? This article explores Malik’s journey and the challenges he faces as he steps back into the political arena.
Key Takeaways
- Nawab Malik appointed as chief of the Election Coordination Committee.
- Malik's comeback in Mumbai politics after a significant electoral defeat.
- Anticipated discussions on seat sharing with MahaYuti allies.
- Malik's past legal challenges continue to impact his political career.
- Opposition from BJP regarding Malik's role in governance.
Mumbai, Aug 13 (NationPress) In a significant move ahead of the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, has appointed former minister Nawab Malik as the head of the Election Coordination Committee.
This marks Malik's return to the political scene in Mumbai, especially following his loss in the assembly elections last year from the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency.
As the head of the Election Coordination Committee, Malik is expected to engage in discussions regarding seat-sharing with the MahaYuti partners, including the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, should the three factions choose to contest the elections together as Mahayuti.
According to a senior leader present at the meeting, “Nawab Malik will oversee the party's electoral strategy in Mumbai for the upcoming civic elections, which encompasses finalizing the contested seats, candidate selection, and overall party coordination.”
After his defeat in the 2024 assembly elections for the Mankhurd-Shivajinagar constituency, Malik's political activity had notably diminished. He had vacated his seat in Anushaktinagar for his daughter, who subsequently won the election.
Previously, Malik had a tumultuous political journey, transitioning from a cabinet minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government under Uddhav Thackeray to being apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
The BJP expressed strong opposition to Malik’s presence on the treasury benches after Ajit Pawar's faction of the NCP joined the Eknath Shinde administration.
The BJP raised objections to Malik's inclusion due to his past arrest on February 23, 2022, by the ED in a money laundering case associated with the Goawala compound property in Kurla.
Malik was granted bail in August 2023 on health grounds and subsequently rejoined the NCP after Ajit Pawar’s faction allied with the BJP. His presence on the treasury benches during the Nagpur winter session of the state legislature led to unease within the BJP.
In retaliation, then Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis issued a stern letter opposing Malik’s involvement in the ruling coalition.
“We strongly oppose Nawab Malik’s inclusion in the ruling alliance. While he has the right to attend the Assembly session, his inclusion in the NCP is unacceptable, given he is on bail and has not yet been cleared of the charges,” Fadnavis stated.
Point of View
Nawab Malik's appointment signifies a strategic maneuver by the NCP to strengthen its position in the upcoming BMC elections. His experience and past political journey could be instrumental in navigating the complexities of coalition politics in Mumbai. NationPress remains committed to delivering unbiased insights as the political landscape evolves.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nawab Malik?
Nawab Malik is a former minister in the Maharashtra government and a prominent politician in Mumbai, recently appointed as the head of the NCP's Election Coordination Committee.
What is the Election Coordination Committee?
The Election Coordination Committee is responsible for strategizing and coordinating the party's electoral campaign, including seat-sharing arrangements with allies.
What challenges does Malik face in his political comeback?
Malik faces challenges from opposition parties, including the BJP, and must navigate his past legal issues while re-establishing his influence in Mumbai politics.
How did Malik's political journey change after his arrest?
After being arrested by the ED in a money laundering case, Malik's political activity decreased, but he has since returned to the NCP and is attempting to regain his political foothold.
What is the significance of the BMC elections?
The BMC elections are crucial as they determine the governance of Mumbai, one of India's largest cities, and reflect the political dynamics of the region.
