On Thursday, former Maharashtra Minister Baba Siddique left Congress after 47 years of long-lasting membership, with an immediate effect. However, he said that there was ‘a lot’ he could have said but chose to remain silent.
Baba Siddique Leaves Congress Party
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the former minister Baba Siddique said that he joined the Indian National Congress as a teenager and it was a significant journey of 47 years. Today he resigns with the immediate effects. He further added that there’s a lot he would like to express but remained silent for the betterment and peace.
However, there are speculations on estrangement within the Congress party, particularly on decision-making and leadership style. Also, as Maharashtra is undergoing political realignment over the NCP, the leaders of the NCP said that Siddique was expected to join the NCP faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
Siddique to join Ajit Pawar led-NCP?
The speculations came after Baba Siddique and his son Zeeshan, an MLA, recently met with Pawar to discuss their future political plans fueled confirmation from the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), confirmed that Siddique is likely to join the party soon.
Besides this, the strategic move of Siddique comes after the prominent Congress leader, Milind Deora joined the Shiv Sena which indicates discontent within the Congress. Also, Siddique is a prominent leader in Mumbai which could benefit the party. However, several Congress leaders expressed their disappointment over Siddique’s decision.
Congress leaders on Siddique’s resign
Many Congress leaders expressed their general disappointment at Siddique’s decision. The Congress spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam suggested the exit was a ‘personal ambition’ instead of ideological differences by questioning the timing and concern over the party’s political landscape.
Moreover, Maharashtra Congress president Balasaheb Thorat expressed sadness over Siddique’s departure, acknowledging his long-standing contribution to the party. Likely, other leaders from the party focused on the broader political scenario, as Siddique is a prominent leader from the minor community, and his departure might affect the party severely.
Political Implications
Baba Siddique’s resignation might potentially lead to further deflection or internal conflicts, and weaken the party’s position in key areas. Further, solidifies the NCP’s position as a key player in Maharashtra politics, challenging the traditional Congress-BJP dynamic, and impact on the upcoming elections.
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