In a move that has intensified political tensions in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has allocated three tickets for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections to the family of former minister Nawab Malik. This decision directly challenges the party's ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has strongly objected to Malik's involvement due to ongoing legal cases against him.
BJP's Strong Objection and the Dawood Ibrahim Link
The BJP's objection is not a minor political disagreement but stems from serious allegations against Nawab Malik. The cases in question involve property deals with relatives and close aides of the infamous underworld don, Dawood Ibrahim. The BJP has consistently raised concerns over these associations, arguing that they make Malik and his family politically untenable candidates. By handing tickets to Malik's family members, Ajit Pawar has effectively snubbed these concerns, asserting his party's autonomy within the ruling coalition.
Details of the Ticket Allocation
The decision was finalized and reported on 29 December 2025. While the exact names of the family members were not detailed in the initial report, the act of granting three nominations is seen as a significant show of support from the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar. This move is interpreted as a clear message of political solidarity with Nawab Malik, who has been a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics. The BMC polls are a critical battleground for control of India's richest municipal corporation, making ticket distribution a high-stakes affair.
Political Repercussions and Coalition Dynamics
This development threatens to strain the already complex alliance between the BJP and Ajit Pawar's NCP in the state government. It highlights the underlying friction and the competitive nature of their partnership, especially as they prepare for crucial local body elections. Pawar's defiance signals a willingness to chart an independent course and protect his party's interests and loyalists, even at the risk of displeasing a powerful national ally. The incident sets the stage for a contentious election campaign in Mumbai, where the BJP's objection is likely to become a major talking point.
The fallout from this decision will be closely watched, as it tests the resilience of Maharashtra's ruling coalition. It also raises questions about how the BJP will respond, whether through public criticism, behind-the-scenes negotiations, or strategic counter-moves in the BMC polls. The episode underscores the volatile and intricate nature of state politics where alliances are constantly negotiated and challenged.
