Zeeshan Siddique, Baba Siddique's son, joins Ajit Pawar faction of NCP, was expelled by Congress

Zeeshan Siddique, the son of the late former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique, has officially joined the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) as he prepares to contest the Vandre (East) seat in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20. This political move comes in the wake of his father’s tragic assassination on October 12, when Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his son’s office in Bandra. Zeeshan previously secured this seat as a Congress candidate in 2019 and is now seeking to reclaim it amid significant political upheaval.

Zeeshan's switch to the NCP follows his expulsion from Congress in August due to alleged cross-voting during legislative council elections. His departure from the party marks a notable shift in loyalty, especially considering that Baba Siddique had also transitioned to the NCP earlier this year, emphasizing the family's complex political ties. Zeeshan's move reflects a broader strategy to align himself with a party that offers stability and support during a tumultuous time.

In his initial remarks after joining the NCP, Zeeshan expressed disappointment with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)—an alliance between Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, Congress, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP. He accused the MVA of abandoning him following his father’s death and criticized their decision to nominate Varun Sardesai, Uddhav Thackeray's nephew, as their candidate for Vandre (East). This development has intensified the political rivalry in the region, as Zeeshan emphasizes the emotional and familial stakes involved in the election.

The upcoming contest between Zeeshan and Sardesai is set against the backdrop of Baba Siddique’s assassination, which has led to a heightened focus on political violence in Maharashtra. The police investigation into the murder remains ongoing, with 14 arrests made so far and various motives being explored, including potential business rivalries. Baba Siddique was a prominent figure in state politics, having served multiple terms as an MLA, and his death has raised concerns about safety and political integrity in the region.

As the elections approach, Zeeshan has voiced his determination to secure victory in Vandre (East) and continue his father's fight for the rights of the people. With the elections set for November 20 and results expected on November 23, Zeeshan Siddique's political journey will be pivotal in shaping the future of the NCP and the broader political landscape in Maharashtra.