Former Minister Nawab Malik Joins Ajit Pawar-Led NCP Faction | 🗳️ LatestLY
NAGPUR, December 7 – Former Minister Nawab Malik, who served an 18-month prison sentence in an alleged money-laundering case, has reportedly joined the breakaway faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. After being released on medical bail, Malik, 64, has chosen to align himself with Pawar’s group, as confirmed by his presence in the Vidhan Bhavan complex in Nagpur today during the Winter Session of the Maharashtra Legislature.
The morning saw Malik visiting the office of one of the leaders from the Ajit Pawar faction, raising eyebrows and leaving onlookers intrigued. Despite a somewhat embarrassed smile, Malik interacted with several legislators and officials, exchanging pleasantries, shaking hands, and waving to some. It was his first appearance in the legislative session in nearly two years, and his presence on the treasury benches in the Assembly signified his support for Ajit Pawar.
The decision was his to make, and he is most welcome in Nagpur, declared Ajit Pawar, who earlier had a conversation with Malik. The veteran leader’s move had been a subject of speculation, given that he was sought after by both factions within the NCP since his release on bail in mid-August. However, senior party leaders refrained from commenting on the development, stating that Malik, as a senior leader, had likely considered all aspects before arriving at his decision.
The political maneuvering comes ahead of a scheduled public meeting on December 12 in Nagpur, where renowned figures like Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, and Digvijaya Singh are expected to address the gathering. It remains to be seen what effect Malik’s decision will have on the dynamics within the NCP and the upcoming meeting. NCP leader Anil Deshmukh accused the BJP of trying to end Sharad Pawar’s political career by giving a ‘supari’ to Ajit Pawar.
As journalists, we understand the significance of relaying news to our global audience in a clear and concise manner. Our aim is to provide factual information while catering to the interests and needs of our readers. Hence, we bring you this update on the latest developments in Maharashtra politics. Nawab Malik’s decision to join the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction is expected to bring about considerable changes in the state’s political landscape, and we will keep you updated as events unfold.
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