Everything Will Be Clear By Nov 4: Ajit Pawar Responds To BJP's Demand For Nawab Malik's Removal

Amid opposition from ally BJP to fielding Nawab Malik from the Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar constituency in Mumbai, NCP chief Ajit Pawar on Friday said that people will get a clear picture about his party's candidate by November 4.

The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister is on a tour to 59 villages in Baramati ahead of assembly polls. On asking about the controversy around Nawab Malik, he said, "On the 4th, we will get a clear picture of who will be a candidate or not and from which party. We will get a complete picture by the evening of the 4th."

He also spoke about the Dhangar reservation issue while assuring people that the Mahayuti's popular scheme "ladki bahini" scheme will continue.

Pawar highlighted the government's dedication to supporting the Dhangar community, which has long sought reservation benefits. Currently listed under the Nomadic Tribes (NT) or Bhatakya Vimukta category, the community presently holds a reservation of 3.5 percent.

He also discussed various welfare schemes for the Muslim and Dhangar communities, including the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Swayam Yojana, which aims to uplift nomadic tribes, and the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, offering financial assistance to farmers.

Pawar has emphasized the government's focus on social welfare, economic development, and inclusive growth. With the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections set for November 20 and results expected on November 23, Baramati is witnessing a family rivalry between Pawar family members once again, as Ajit Pawar's nephew, Yugendra Pawar, contests on behalf of the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP.

On the other hand, the BJP has opposed Nawab Malik's candidature and openly said that the party will not campaign for the NCP candidate. "We have already clarified our position. We will not campaign for him at any cost," Fadnavis told reporters on Thursday.

It has to be noted that the NDA has fielded Shiv Sena (Shinde) candidate in the said constituency.