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Zeeshan, a sitting MLA, was not consulted as the Shiv Sena (UBT) decided to contest Bandra East under the MVA alliance. Seeing that the Congress was not actively fighting to retain the seat, he chose to move to the NCP
Zeeshan Siddique, Congress MLA from Bandra East and son of slain leader Baba Siddique, joined the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction in a surprise move.
Known for his strong Congress roots and dedication to grassroots issues, Zeeshan’s shift to Ajit Pawar’s camp marks a significant political realignment. The timing has been horrendous as the move comes amid Congress’ dismal performance in the recent Lok Sabha, while the NCP is gaining a foothold in Mumbai, strengthening its position in the upcoming Maharashtra elections.
Zeeshan’s political journey began with his first election victory in 2019, where he defeated the late Shiv Sena’s Vishwanath Mahadeshwar, former mayor of Mumbai, in the Bandra East constituency. Baba Siddique’s father mentored him and Zeeshan’s work quickly made him a Congress favourite.
Bandra East, a constituency also contested by BJP’s Narayan Rane, has symbolic value as it is the home of Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray. By winning here, Zeeshan has achieved what no Congress leader before him could – become a young leader who can challenge traditional strongholds.
Why Zeeshan Siddique Quit Congress?
Zeeshan’s exit raises questions about his departure at a time when the Congress is gaining momentum in Maharashtra. Explaining his decision, he told CNN-News18: “It was not easy to leave the Congress. I have been working with the party since I was 18. I contested and won the Youth Congress elections, got the state assembly ticket, and took the challenge in Bandra East, where the leaders the height has fluctuated over five election cycles.
According to Zeeshan, the environment in the Congress has become increasingly difficult, making it a challenge to work effectively. He pointed out that he got minimal funding during the MVA administration, limiting his initiatives to his constituencies. After his father defected to the NCP, Zeeshan was also suddenly removed from his post as Mumbai Youth Congress president, which he felt was unfair.
“They didn’t allow me to present my side, and no leader supported me openly when I was removed. Personally, someone told me it was wrong,” he said.
Ajit Pawar, who had supported Baba Siddique in times of trouble, welcomed Zeeshan into the NCP faction.
Apart from emotional factors, Zeeshan’s decision to join NCP was also strategic. Under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, Shiv Sena UBT is set to contest Bandra East, and Zeeshan, the sitting MLA, did not question the decision. Seeing that the Congress was not actively fighting to retain the seat, they chose to go to the NCP, which quickly issued nomination forms for the seat.
“I am saddened by the approach of Congress and MVA leaders who, after my father’s death, said that we will hold elections in this constituency unopposed. They failed to convince Uddhav Thackeray who announced his candidate from Bandra East. MVA leaders politicized my father’s death.
Zeeshan’s entry is a strategic advantage for Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, which is now a popular young leader with a strong following. Known for his grassroots connectivity, Zeeshan is well regarded among the youth and minority communities. Alignment with Ajit Pawar is interpreted as a nod to the faction’s pragmatic, development-focused approach, which is in line with its priorities in youth empowerment and economic growth.
Zeeshan’s presence in Bandra East could upset the traditional political dynamics in the constituency, which has long been a Congress stronghold. Such a shift will reduce the influence of Congress, especially among younger and progressive voters who support a modern style of leadership. The Congress, which has banked on Zeeshan’s popularity to engage the youth and minority communities, may now struggle to retain Bandra East.
Zeeshan’s move also reflects Ajit Pawar’s focus on bringing fresh perspectives to the faction. With an emphasis on economic reforms, infrastructure, and job creation, Pawar’s vision aligns with Siddique Jr’s aspirations, making him an ideal addition to the NCP faction.
Observers note that Pawar’s faction continues to attract young leaders who are willing to prioritize development over conventional party dynamics, and Zeeshan’s inclusion is evidence of this progressive policy direction.
By joining Ajit Pawar’s faction, Zeeshan begins a new chapter in his political journey, potentially gaining a bigger platform to address youth employment, social inclusion, and economic policy at the state level. His reputation as a responsive leader with strong connections to his constituencies suggests he will continue to play an important role, albeit under a different party banner. While some supporters may have different feelings, their commitment to Bandra East and the issues affecting Maharashtra’s youth and marginalized communities remains intact.
Zeeshan’s strategic move makes him a potential influencer in state policy circles, which ultimately benefits his constituency and increases his influence across the country. As Maharashtra enters the next election cycle, Zeeshan’s realignment will be closely monitored by political analysts and constituents. The decision not only changed the political trajectory itself, but also shaped the alliances and balance of power that would shape the future of Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, Zeeshan, who is also following the Mumbai Police about his father’s murder, does not get a clear answer from him.
“I think this is a complete intelligence failure of the Mumbai Police because my father was shot just a few meters from my office. The police only told us that we are very close to this case, but every day I read more information from the media than the police.
Zeeshan was also disappointed that Lawrence Bishnoi’s narration had been made before his father could reach the hospital. Although Zeeshan has asked the police to investigate all possible angles, it is still unclear about the real motive and mastermind behind the murder.