Mumbai, Aug 20: Congress MLA Zeeshan Siddiqui made headlines at a recent event in Bandra and Govandi, where he delivered a powerful speech that subtly criticized his party’s leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, without naming him directly. Siddiqui’s remarks have sparked speculation about internal rifts within the Maharashtra Congress , especially as the state gears up for the upcoming assembly elections.
The event, originally part of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s Jan Samman Yatra, was held in Bandra, near the residence of former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. While Ajit Pawar focused on promoting the government’s schemes, including the ‘Ladli Behna’ initiative, it was Zeeshan Siddiqui who stole the show with his candid observations.
Siddiqui, who has been vocal about the challenges faced by his constituents, used the platform to express his frustrations with the Congress leadership. He revealed that when he approaches senior leaders with public grievances, he is often met with indifference, being told that certain matters are beyond their control due to the Chief Minister’s position. This pointed remark was seen as a veiled criticism of the current state of affairs within the Congress party.
In a striking departure from the usual rhetoric, Siddiqui alluded to the famous slogan associated with Rahul Gandhi, saying, “Just opening a shop of love is not enough; we also need a lot of love in our hearts.”
Siddiqui’s participation in the event has also raised eyebrows, given that his father, Baba Siddiqui, recently joined NCP (Ajit Pawar). Despite his father’s shift, Zeeshan remains a Congress member, though his public comments have fueled rumors about his potential defection. However, Siddiqui was quick to clarify that his presence at the yatra was due to it passing through his constituency, not necessarily an endorsement of Ajit Pawar’s politics.
Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole has since hinted at possible disciplinary action against Siddiqui for his public criticism of the party’s high command. This development underscores the growing tensions within the Maharashtra Congress, as leaders like Siddiqui push back against the status quo, signaling a potential shift in the party’s internal dynamics.
As the assembly elections approach, all eyes are on Zeeshan Siddiqui. Will he remain with the Congress and continue his critique from within, or could his dissatisfaction lead him to explore new political alliances? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Zeeshan Siddiqui is a leader to watch in the coming months.
