The Maharashtra political landscape is witnessing a seismic shift as Nawab Malik's supposed move to align with Ajit Pawar's NCP faction within the ruling MahaYuti alliance has drawn strong objections from the BJP. Devendra Fadnavis, the Deputy CM from the BJP, voiced reservations regarding Malik's inclusion, citing serious allegations of "treason" faced by Malik.
Fadnavis clarified that while Malik, as an MLA, has the right to participate in the legislature, his potential inclusion in the MahaYuti alliance could pose complications due to the allegations against him. He emphasized that these concerns should be heeded to avoid disrupting the alliance.
The BJP leader indirectly criticized former CM Uddhav Thackeray's decision to retain Malik in the cabinet despite facing severe charges, stating that the BJP couldn't support such a move. Fadnavis urged Ajit Pawar to consider the BJP's sentiments on this matter.
Inside the Maharashtra Assembly, Fadnavis had previously criticized the MVA government for retaining Malik as a minister despite his imprisonment over alleged terror connections. Malik's return to the legislature after nearly two years stirred controversy, triggering a commotion both inside and outside the Assembly.
In response, opposition voices, like the Congress' Sachin Sawant and NCP-SP's Clyde Crasto, condemned the BJP's stance on Malik's perceived alignment with the NCP-AP faction. They raised questions about the BJP's past statements regarding Malik, highlighting the party's changing political narratives.
As of now, Ajit Pawar and other leaders from his party haven't publicly addressed these unfolding political developments. The situation remains tense as these unexpected twists continue to impact Maharashtra's political landscape.
(With Agency Inputs)
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