Nawab Malik Controversy Threatens BJP-NCP Alliance Ahead of Mumbai Municipal Elections

Following the announcement of Municipal Corporation elections in Maharashtra, numerous meetings have commenced in Mumbai to determine potential alliance formations.

The political landscape is buzzing with speculation about whether the Maha Vikas Aghadi and the governing Mahayuti alliances will remain intact. While Mahayuti appears more cohesive than the opposition, tensions between the BJP and Ajit Pawar-led NCP leaders suggest they might contest separately in Mumbai.

Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam made a definitive statement: "If Nawab Malik is their (NCP) leader, then we won't be with them. He has serious allegations against him, and we won't ally with them."

The BJP has explicitly stated it will not collaborate with any party in Mumbai under Malik's leadership, citing the legal cases against the senior NCP figure.

Malik, a former minister, faces charges from a special court in a money laundering case connected to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's activities. Arrested in 2022, he is currently released on bail, with his case expected to be heard before 2026.

NCP leader Suraj Chavan responded to these allegations, stating: "The allegations are currently under investigation. Mumbai BJP leaders should be careful not to disturb the unity of the Mahayuti."

Despite the controversy, Malik remains an influential figure for the NCP ahead of Mumbai's local polls. Though the NCP lacks strong organizational presence among city voters, its secular reputation helps maintain support from Muslim and Dalit communities, making Malik a strategic asset.

Addressing the alliance dynamics at the state level, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicated that while BJP and Shiv Sena would form alliances in most of the 29 urban centers participating in the elections, this arrangement might not extend to the NCP, particularly in Mumbai.