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The upcoming Maharashtra Assembly election is shaping up to be a dramatic affair, with the recent murder of politician Baba Siddique casting a shadow over the political landscape. His son, Zeeshan Siddique, is set to enter the fray, contesting the Vandre East seat under the banner of Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). This comes amidst a complex web of political alliances and shifting loyalties, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming election.
Zeeshan Siddique's journey to this point has been marked by political upheaval. He previously represented the Congress in the 2019 Assembly election, defeating Shiv Sena's Vishwanath Mahadeshwar. However, in 2024, he left the Congress to join the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar. His departure was followed by his expulsion from the Congress, allegedly due to “cross voting” in the Maharashtra Legislative Council polls.
The political dynamics have further been complicated by the tragic death of Baba Siddique. The incident occurred in October 2023, when he was fatally shot near Zeeshan Siddique's office in Mumbai. While the motive behind the killing remains unclear, police have arrested 10 individuals and are actively pursuing the main shooter and alleged conspirators. This tragedy has undoubtedly fueled the political climate in Vandre East, adding an emotional dimension to the election.
In this charged atmosphere, Zeeshan Siddique finds himself pitted against Varun Sardesai, Uddhav Thackeray's nephew, who has been nominated as the candidate for the Shiv Sena (UBT) from Vandre East. The seat, within the BJP-led Mahayuti, has been allocated to Ajit Pawar's NCP. This sets the stage for a fierce contest between the NCP and the Shiv Sena (UBT), both of which are vying for support in the constituency.
As the election draws near, the spotlight will be on Zeeshan Siddique's campaign. His ability to capitalize on the recent tragedy, his connections within the NCP, and his previous electoral experience will all play a crucial role in determining his success. Voters in Vandre East face a complex choice, grappling with the legacy of Baba Siddique, the political alliances in play, and the broader implications of the upcoming election. The outcome of the contest will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of the region and provide insights into the evolving dynamics of Maharashtra politics.