BJP opposes NCP’s Nawab Malik and Swikruti Sharma’s candidacy in Maharashtra, citing links to Dawood Ibrahim and controversial backgrounds.
BJP’s Opposition Stirs Tensions in Mahayuti Alliance
The seat-sharing arrangement in Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti alliance, led by the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) under Ajit Pawar, is nearing finalization. However, tensions are rising as the BJP objects to the candidacy of two controversial figures. The primary conflict revolves around NCP leader Nawab Malik and Swikruti Sharma of the Shiv Sena, who is the wife of former encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma. Both candidates face scrutiny due to their backgrounds, raising concerns about the alliance’s ticket distribution.
BJP’s Concerns Over Nawab Malik’s Candidacy
Nawab Malik, a seasoned NCP leader and current Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Anushakti Nagar, has faced legal challenges over allegations related to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The charges link him to notorious underworld figures, including Dawood Ibrahim. Following his arrest in 2022 while serving as a minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, Malik has remained a controversial figure. His alleged connections to Dawood, Chhota Shakeel, and Tiger Memon have drawn significant public and political criticism. Although currently out on medical bail, Malik continues to face an uphill battle to clear his name.
BJP’s Firm Stance on Controversial Candidates
Due to these controversies, the BJP has firmly opposed Malik’s candidacy. Mumbai BJP President Ashish Shelar recently expressed the party’s stance, stating, “We will not accept giving a ticket to someone linked to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.” Despite his troubles, the NCP has found a workaround; Malik’s daughter, Sana Malik, is now set to contest the Anushakti Nagar seat. In a strategic move, Nawab Malik is expected to shift his focus to the Shivaji Nagar-Mankhurd constituency, possibly to avoid further complications in his existing constituency.
BJP’s Objection to Swikruti Sharma’s Nomination
Swikruti Sharma, another candidate facing objections, belongs to the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction). As the wife of Pradeep Sharma, a former Mumbai Police officer known for his involvement in numerous encounter cases, her candidacy has also raised eyebrows within the BJP. The party’s leadership questions the suitability of allowing someone with such connections to represent the alliance.
Challenges Facing BJP and the Mahayuti Alliance
The BJP’s opposition to these candidates has caused friction with its Mahayuti allies, as Shiv Sena and NCP leaders seek to secure favorable seats for their representatives. As the finalization of the seat-sharing formula nears, these disagreements highlight the challenges of maintaining unity in the coalition. The ruling alliance is under pressure to resolve these disputes, given the importance of Mumbai in the upcoming elections.
BJP’s Strategy to Project a Clean Image Ahead of Elections
With the state’s political dynamics rapidly evolving, the BJP aims to retain a strong stance against candidates linked to criminal backgrounds or controversial associations. Their resistance to Malik and Sharma’s candidacies illustrates a broader effort to project a clean image ahead of the elections. This strategy is seen as a move to bolster public trust and avoid potential backlash from voters who are concerned about corruption and criminal affiliations.
BJP’s Influence on the Mahayuti’s Electoral Strategy
Ultimately, how the Mahayuti alliance navigates these internal disagreements will be crucial for its electoral prospects in Maharashtra. The ongoing dispute reflects the complexities of coalition politics, especially in a politically diverse state like Maharashtra, where regional influences and party ideologies often clash. The BJP’s efforts to stand firm on principles of transparency and candidate vetting will be tested as the alliance seeks to maintain unity while addressing the demands of its partners.
Impact of BJP’s Candidate Objections on the Alliance
The objections raised against Nawab Malik and Swikruti Sharma emphasize the BJP’s strategy to distance itself from individuals linked to criminal activities. The party’s decision to challenge their candidacy may impact the overall seat-sharing agreement and could influence how voters perceive the alliance’s commitment to clean governance. The outcome of these conflicts will play a significant role in shaping the Mahayuti alliance’s strategy as it prepares for the crucial elections ahead.