Former 26/11 special public prosecutor, Ujjwal Nikam will be standing as the candidate from the Mumbai North Central seat for BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha Election. Dropping two-term incumbent sitting MP Poonam Mahajan.
#LokSabhaElections2024 | BJP fields Special Public Prosecutor during 26/11 Mumbai Terror attack case, Ujjwal Nikam as its candidate from Mumbai North Central.
BJP’s Poonam Mahajan is the sitting MP from the constituency. pic.twitter.com/0FbzDxDpQ6
— ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2024
Who Is Ujjawal Nikam?
Notable for his presence on prime-time TV during Ajmal Kasab’s trial, the Padma Shree awardee had dealt with various high-profile cases including cases like the 1993 bombings and the 26/11 attacks.
Now, Nikam has entered the field of Politics. The special prosecutor will be facing off against congress candidate Varsha Gaikwad.
When asked about his candidature, Nikam considered himself lucky for serving the nation. “We can serve society and the country through politics. I have received this opportunity to serve the nation. Therefore, I consider myself lucky.”- Ujjwal Nikam on being chosen as a BJP Candidate.
Talking about Politics he said that he considers politics as social service. The nation can also be served through politics. He further said that he considers himself fortunate for giving his service to the nation.
Why was Poonam Mahajan Was Dropped?
Meanwhile, the sitting MP Poonam Mahajan has been dropped for the 2024 Lok Sabha election. As a result, many speculations are triggered.
As indicated by the party’s notice, the decision not to field Poonam seems to be based on organizational feedback. Her removal also symbolizes two messages given by the saffron party. First, nobody is dispensable, and second, the party comes first.
Even though her career was on the rise as a young leader, questions soon began to be raised about her leadership. According to sources, there was an intensity deficit. Another reason was that she wasn’t able to fulfill the expectations of the BJP’s leadership.
While Nikam on the other hand, is expected to fit on the ‘tough on terrorism’ symbol. Which still serves as the crucial poll plank of the party.
When the incumbent MP was asked about their decision, Mahajan accepted it with grace and expressed gratitude. She thanked the leadership for giving her the chance to represent the constituency for 10 years.
The Mumbai North Central constituency will vote on May 20th, 2024. Which consists of Six Assembly segments.