Former Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik made headlines recently after announcing his support for the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. He boldly predicted that the ruling BJP would face a crushing defeat in the state elections, emphasizing that he would campaign for the MVA to ensure their success.
Malik, who played a significant role in the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, shared his views with reporters following a meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray at his residence in Mumbai. The Maharashtra assembly elections, scheduled to take place in November, are set to be a crucial turning point in the state’s political landscape.
The ruling Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of the Shiv Sena, includes the BJP and the NCP headed by Ajit Pawar. On the other hand, the opposition MVA alliance consists of the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP).
Expressing his confidence in the MVA’s prospects in the upcoming elections, Malik stated, “The BJP will not just receive a major blow, but the party will be wiped out in the Maharashtra assembly elections. Uddhav Thackeray will play the most important role in this election.” He further extended his full support to the MVA and pledged to actively campaign for the alliance.
During a civil society event in Mumbai, Malik reiterated his belief that the Maharashtra elections would have a significant impact on the country’s political direction. He criticized the central government for delaying the polls in Maharashtra and Haryana, suggesting that it was due to fears of losing to opposition parties.
In addition to his political predictions, Malik called for a thorough investigation into the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, urging accountability for the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. He also highlighted his concerns about the government’s handling of the ongoing farmers’ protests near Delhi, emphasizing the need for implementing promised Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for farmers.
Malik, who has served as governor in five different states, shared his experiences of facing harassment from the central government during his tenure, including multiple transfers, withdrawal of security, and misuse of central agencies against him. Despite these challenges, he remained vocal in his criticism of the current administration, particularly regarding the politicization of the Pulwama incident and the treatment of farmers.
As the Maharashtra assembly elections draw near, Malik’s support for the MVA and his bold predictions about the BJP’s fate in the state have added an intriguing twist to the political landscape. With his determination to campaign for the opposition alliance and his calls for accountability on various issues, Malik continues to be a prominent voice in the realm of Indian politics.
