Maharashtra Deputy CM Opposes NCP MLA Nawab Maliks Inclusion in Ruling Alliance

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis wrote to cabinet colleague Ajit Pawar opposing the induction of NCP MLA Nawab Malik, accused in an ED case, into the ruling Maha Yuti alliance.

In a significant development, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has written a letter to his cabinet colleague and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, expressing strong opposition to the induction of NCP MLA Nawab Malik into the ruling Maha Yuti alliance. The move comes as the opposition intensifies its attack on the BJP and the state government over Malik's involvement in an ED case.

Fadnavis' Concerns and Opposition's Criticism

Fadnavis, in his letter, acknowledges Malik's right to attend the assembly as an MLA but raises concerns about the allegations he faces. He emphasizes that considering the seriousness of the charges, including money laundering, it would be inappropriate to induct Malik into the Maha Yuti alliance. The BJP leader also highlights that Malik is currently out only on medical bail.

The opposition, particularly the Shiv Sena (UBT), has been vocal in its criticism of the government's stance on Malik. They point out that the BJP had previously labeled Malik as a traitor due to allegations of a land deal in Mumbai with fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim's aides. The opposition questions how Malik, once branded as a terrorist and traitor, is now seen associating with the ruling alliance.

NCP's Response and Ongoing Debate

In response to Fadnavis' letter, MLC Amol Mitkari of the Ajit Pawar faction expressed surprise and asserted that such matters could have been discussed in person rather than through a public letter. Jayant Patil of the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP took a sarcastic tone, suggesting that the deputy CMs lacked direct communication and had to resort to an open letter.

The issue of Malik's induction into the government side did not lead to direct exchanges in the Assembly, but it sparked heated debates in the Legislative Council. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders, including Ambadas Danve and Anil Parab, attempted to corner the government over the matter, while Excise Minister Shambhuraj Desai of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena objected to Danve's remarks.

Fadnavis' Counterarguments and Congress' Claims

Fadnavis countered the opposition's criticism by pointing out that the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government, of which the Shiv Sena (UBT) was a part, had allowed Malik to continue as a minister even after his arrest. He questioned why they did not demand his resignation at that time.

Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar, made claims that the funds allocation in the supplementary demands presented earlier in the day would ultimately benefit Malik. He alleged that Malik had submitted an affidavit extending support to Ajit Pawar and suggested that the government wanted him on its side without officially acknowledging it.

Unresolved Seating Arrangement and Malik's Ambiguity

As the two NCP factions led by Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar have not been officially recognized as separate entities by the Speaker, there is no separate seating arrangement for them in the legislature. This adds to the ongoing confusion regarding Malik's alignment within the party.

While Malik was seen in the Ajit Pawar faction's office in the legislature complex, NCP chief whip Anil Patil stated that Malik himself would clarify which faction he belongs to. Ajit Pawar, on the other hand, maintained that Malik would make his own decisions and that the Assembly Speaker has the authority to determine seating arrangements.

The controversy surrounding Nawab Malik's potential induction into the ruling alliance continues to unfold, with various political parties and leaders expressing their opinions and concerns. The outcome of this debate remains uncertain, and it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming days.