NCP's Nawab Malik criticizes BJP's anti-conversion law proposal, signals potential alliances in Maha
MUMBAI: Nawab Malik, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) candidate from Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar, voiced strong criticism on Tuesday against the anti-conversion law proposed in the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) manifesto for Maharashtra. Malik dismissed the proposed legislation as a tactic to "misguide people" and affirmed that the NCP would not join forces with the BJP if it continues to push "divisive and disputed issues."
Despite being part of the Mahayuti alliance, which includes the BJP, Malik did not rule out aligning with the opposition Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) if the upcoming assembly results lead to a hung house. While the BJP, a senior partner in the ruling Mahayuti, is supporting Shinde Sena's candidate Suresh Patil in the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency, Malik emphasized that any future government, if led by the Mahayuti, would be based on a Common Minimum Programme rather than purely BJP-driven policies.
"BJP will have to leave out some issues," Malik told The Times of India in an interview, suggesting that compromises would be necessary to form a stable government.
In response to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's controversial "Batenge toh Katenge" remark, widely interpreted as targeting Muslims, Malik condemned the statement. "I condemn this slogan. Politics based on religion is short-lived," he asserted. Malik also criticized the BJP's plan for an anti-conversion law, saying, "Right to religion is a fundamental right, and conversion cannot be stopped. BJP is playing with words to misguide people."
When asked about the NCP's stance in the event of a coalition, particularly whether they might support the MVA if no party gains an outright majority, Malik remained open-ended. "Anything is possible. Anyone can go with anyone," he said, emphasizing the fluid nature of Maharashtra's political scene as the state heads towards a potentially fragmented election outcome.
Malik was optimistic about NCP's electoral prospects, expressing confidence that party leader Ajit Pawar would secure enough seats to act as a "kingmaker" in the post-election scenario. He hinted at the possibility of a situation similar to 1999, where no single party had a clear majority, allowing the NCP to play a pivotal role.
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Mumbai: The Maharashtra Assembly elections have witnessed a fierce battle for power, with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance aiming to retain its position and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition striving for resurgence. As counting begins today, 23rd November 2024, 4,140 candidates are in contention for 288 seats. Among these, 234 are general-category seats, while 29 are reserved for Scheduled Castes and 25 for Scheduled Tribes. Here are five constituencies to watch closely:
1. Worli:
Milind Deora (Shiv Sena - Shinde faction), Aaditya Thackeray (Shiv Sena UBT), and Sandeep Deshpande (MNS) are contesting. Aaditya Thackeray, the incumbent, is known for his hands-on approach during the pandemic. Milind Deora, a former minister, appeals to urban voters, while Deshpande focuses on infrastructure and housing issues.
2. Baramati:
Ajit Pawar (NCP) and Yugendra Pawar (NCP - Sharad Pawar faction) are in the fray. Ajit Pawar has held this seat since 1991, while Yugendra Pawar, mentored by Sharad Pawar, is making his debut in this traditional stronghold.
3. Vandre East:
Zeeshan Siddique (NCP) and Varun Sardesai (Shiv Sena UBT) are the key contenders. Siddique is popular among young voters and the Muslim community, while Sardesai has strong ties to Shiv Sena's traditional base.
4. Nagpur South West:
Devendra Fadnavis (BJP) and Praful Gudadhe (Congress) are contesting. Fadnavis seeks his fourth consecutive term, leveraging his development initiatives, while Gudadhe may attract voters dissatisfied with urban infrastructure and public services.
5. Kopri-Pachpakhadi:
Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena) and Kedar Dighe (Shiv Sena UBT) are in a tough contest. Shinde, the current chief minister, highlights his mentor Anand Dighe’s legacy, while Dighe’s nephew, Kedar, challenges him in this Thane constituency.
The election campaign saw prominent leaders, including PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, actively canvassing across the state.
