Why Did Zeeshan Siddique Leave Congress for Ajit Pawar’s NCP? Inside The Shift In Bandra East
Last Updated:
Zeeshan, the sitting MLA, was not consulted as Shiv Sena (UBT) decided to contest Bandra East in the MVA alliance. Seeing that Congress did not actively fight to retain the seat, he chose to move to the NCP
aharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP (Ajit) chief Ajit Pawar felicitates Zeeshan Siddique as the latter joins the party. (PTI)
Zeeshan Siddique, Congress MLA from Bandra East and son of slain leader Baba Siddique, joined the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in a surprising turn of events.
Known for his strong Congress roots and dedication to grassroots issues, Zeeshan’s shift to Ajit Pawar’s camp signals a significant political realignment. The timing has raised eyebrows as the move comes amid Congress riding high on its recent Lok Sabha performance, while the NCP gains a foothold in Mumbai, strengthening its position in the run-up to the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections.
Zeeshan’s political journey began with his first electoral victory in 2019, where he defeated Shiv Sena’s late Vishwanath Mahadeshwar, a former Mumbai mayor, in the key Bandra East constituency. His father Baba Siddique mentored him and Zeeshan’s work quickly made him a favourite within the Congress.
Bandra East, a constituency also contested in the past by BJP’s Narayan Rane, has symbolic value as it houses Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray’s residence. By winning here, Zeeshan achieved what many Congress leaders before him couldn’t — establishing himself as a young leader capable of challenging traditional strongholds.
Why Did Zeeshan Siddique Leave Congress?
Zeeshan’s exit has prompted questions about his departure at a time when Congress is gaining momentum in Maharashtra. Explaining his decision, he told CNN-News18: “It wasn’t easy leaving Congress. I’ve worked with the party since I was 18. I contested and won Youth Congress elections, secured a state assembly ticket, and took on challenges in Bandra East, where tall leaders had faltered over five election cycles.”
According to Zeeshan, the environment within the Congress became increasingly difficult, making it challenging to work effectively. He shared that he received minimal funds during the MVA government, limiting his initiatives for the constituency. After his father’s switch to the NCP, Zeeshan was also abruptly removed from his post as Mumbai Youth Congress president, which he felt was unjust.
“They didn’t even allow me to present my side, and no leader openly supported me when I was removed. Privately, some told me it was wrong,” he added.
Ajit Pawar, who had supported Baba Siddique during difficult times, welcomed Zeeshan into the NCP faction.
Apart from the emotional factor, Zeeshan’s decision to join the NCP was also strategic. In the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, Shiv Sena UBT is set to contest Bandra East, and Zeeshan, the sitting MLA, was not consulted in the decision. Seeing that Congress did not actively fight to retain the seat, he chose to move to the NCP, which quickly issued him nomination forms for the seat.
“I am saddened by the approach of the Congress and MVA leaders who, after my father’s murder, had said that we will make the election in this constituency unopposed. They failed to convince Uddhav Thackeray who announced his candidate from Bandra East. MVA leaders politicised the death of my father.”
Zeeshan’s entry is a strategic advantage for Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, which now gains a popular, youthful leader with a strong following. Known for his grassroots connectivity, Zeeshan is well-regarded among youth and minority communities. His alignment with Ajit Pawar is interpreted as a nod to the faction’s pragmatic, development-focused approach, which aligns well with his priorities in youth empowerment and economic growth.
Zeeshan’s presence in Bandra East could disrupt the traditional political dynamics in the constituency, which has long been a Congress bastion. His shift is expected to weaken Congress’s influence, especially among younger, progressive voters who have supported his modern leadership style. The Congress, which counted on Zeeshan’s popularity to engage youth and minority communities, may now struggle to retain its hold on Bandra East.
Zeeshan’s move also reflects Ajit Pawar’s focus on bringing fresh perspectives into his faction. With an emphasis on economic reforms, infrastructure, and job creation, Pawar’s vision aligns well with Siddique Jr’s aspirations, making him a fitting addition to the NCP faction.
Observers note that Pawar’s faction continues to attract young leaders willing to prioritise development over conventional party dynamics, and Zeeshan’s inclusion is a testament to this progressive policy direction.
By joining Ajit Pawar’s faction, Zeeshan begins a new chapter in his political journey, potentially gaining a larger platform to address youth employment, social inclusion, and economic policies on a state level. His reputation as a responsive leader with a strong connection to his constituency suggests he will continue to play a significant role, albeit under a different party banner. While some of his supporters may have mixed feelings, his commitment to Bandra East and to the issues affecting Maharashtra’s youth and marginalised communities remains intact.
Zeeshan’s strategic move positions him as a potential influencer within state policy circles, which could ultimately benefit his constituency and enhance his state-wide impact. As Maharashtra heads into its next electoral cycle, Zeeshan’s realignment will be closely monitored by political analysts and constituents alike. His decision not only shifts his own political trajectory but also reshapes the alliances and power balances that will shape Maharashtra’s future.
Meanwhile, Zeeshan, who is also following up with Mumbai Police over his father’s murder, is not getting any clear answers from them.
“I am of this opinion that it was complete intelligence failure of Mumbai Police as my dad was shot just a few meters away from my office. Police are only telling me we are very close to cracking this case but every day I get to read more information from media rather than police.”
Zeeshan is also disappointed as the narrative of Lawrence Bishnoi was set up even before his father could reach hospital. Though Zeeshan has asked police to probe all possible angles, there is still no clarity about the motive and real mastermind of the murder.
