The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has appointed Nawab Malik as the chairman of its Mumbai election management committee for the upcoming 2025 BMC elections. This appointment, announced by NCP’s state president and MP Sunil Tatkare, marks a significant move in the party’s preparation for the civic polls. The decision was made with the approval of the NCP’s national president and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and State President Sunil Tatkare.
Nawab Malik, who previously served as the Mumbai NCP president, brings significant experience and influence to the role. The committee includes key NCP figures such as Mumbai working presidents, MLAs, former MLAs, and various state officials. The committee structure includes invited members from different Mumbai constituencies, reflecting a broad approach to election management.
The 2017 BMC elections saw a close contest between Shiv Sena and the BJP, with neither party gaining a clear majority. The upcoming 2025 elections are expected to be highly competitive. The political landscape has been reshaped by splits within the NCP and Shiv Sena. The divisions within the Shiv Sena and the NCP have led to complex alliance dynamics.
The BJP plans to contest the upcoming BMC elections independently, aiming to secure over 150 seats, due to concerns regarding potential damage to its allies’ images. The party is pursuing an independent strategy in the upcoming local elections.
Nawab Malik’s appointment comes despite past controversies, including his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2022 in a money laundering case. The BJP had previously objected to his involvement. The NCP’s decision to entrust Malik with a key role suggests the party is determined to contest aggressively in the elections. The 2025 BMC election is expected to be a triangular contest.
Nawab Malik’s return and his strategic appointment indicate the NCP’s resolve to enter the electoral arena with full force.