Nawab Malik's Return Sparks Controversy in Maharashtra Politics

Former Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik shared a stage with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, causing unease within BJP ranks. Facing money laundering accusations, Malik was recently granted interim bail. His daughter, Sana Malik, was appointed NCP spokesperson. BJP's Devendra Fadnavis criticized the move given Malik's legal issues and prior conflicts with the party.

Former Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik on Monday shared the stage with NCP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Mumbai, a development that could potentially strain the alliance with BJP. This comes as Devendra Fadnavis, a senior BJP leader, has vocally opposed bringing Malik into the Mahayuti alliance.

Malik, accused in a money laundering case, is currently out on interim bail due to medical reasons. During the 'Jan Samman' yatra in Anushakti Nagar, Pawar appointed Malik's daughter, Sana Nawab Malik, as a spokesperson for the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Last year, Fadnavis had warned Ajit Pawar against any intentions to include Malik in the ruling coalition. Fadnavis reiterated his disapproval Monday, stating, 'I have made my stand already clear.' Malik, a former loyalist of NCP founder Sharad Pawar, was arrested in February 2022 but continues to wield influence in Maharashtra politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)