Unrest Brews in BJP as Naik Family Faces Potential Split in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, 21st October 2024: The BJP is experiencing significant unrest in Navi Mumbai, particularly with the influential Naik family, led by former minister Ganesh Naik, poised for a split.

Ganesh Naik has been re-nominated to contest from the Airoli constituency; however, his son, Sandeep Naik, a former MLA and the BJP’s city chief has not cut his vigorous campaigning. In response, Sandeep has chosen to run for the assembly election from Belapur, where the party has re-endorsed its current MLA, Manda Mhatre. Sandeep’s supporters are contemplating resigning from the BJP, with a decisive meeting scheduled for Monday to determine their next steps.

Sandeep may opt to run as an independent candidate or align himself with the NCP (SP). Running as an independent could allow him to return to the BJP if he wins, but joining the NCP (SP) or even the Shiv Sena (UBT) would bolster his position. However, aligning with these parties would likely close the door to a future with the BJP and could make him a target for their backlash.

Insider reports suggest a deal has been brokered where Ganesh Naik will represent the BJP while Sandeep runs independently. This arrangement would create a three-way contest in the Belapur constituency, featuring Mhatre, Sandeep, and the Sena’s Vijay Nahata, who is likely to join the NCP (SP) if Sandeep does not run.

The Shiv Sena has mixed sentiments regarding the Naik situation. City chief Vijay Chougule stated, “I will run as an independent from Airoli, as we have faced significant challenges due to the current MLA, despite our alliance with the BJP.”

Sandeep, when approached, said, “I have been receiving numerous calls from residents of Belapur, and my party workers insist that I should contest under any circumstances. I am committed to doing so; it’s time to seek justice.”

Regarding whether he would run as an independent or under the NCP (SP), Sandeep mentioned, “I’m in discussions with others and will make a decision based on those talks.” Commenting on the potential division within the Naik family, he added, “Ganeshji Naik has chosen to contest for the BJP. I am a two-term MLA with my own identity. My supporters and I will decide our course of action.”

Manda Mhatre, who has previously clashed with the Naiks, refrained from discussing Sandeep’s dissent but said, “Some individuals worked hard to prevent me from receiving the ticket. However, I am grateful to my central and state leaders for their continued faith in me, allowing me to be nominated for a third term.” Shiv Sena city coordinator Kishore Patkar remarked, “Since no Naik has been nominated from Belapur, we will support Mhatre, who has always collaborated with us. We will not campaign for Ganesh Naik.”