Who is Ujjwal Nikam, BJP's pick for Mumbai North Central seat

NEW DELHI: In a surprise addition to its Lok Sabha candidates list, the BJP has now chosen Ujjwal Nikam to contest from the Mumbai North Central seat.

Ujjwal Nikam, known for his work as a prosecutor in the Mumbai 26/11 terror attack was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri in 2016 for his contributions to the legal field.

Throughout his extensive and illustrious career, Nikam has been deeply involved in a multitude of significant cases, showcasing his exceptional legal expertise and dedication to justice.

One of his notable roles was serving as the special public prosecutor in the 2013 Mumbai gang rape case, where he played a crucial role in seeking justice for the victims and their families.

Additionally, Nikam's involvement in other prominent cases, including the 1993 Bombay bombings, the Gulshan Kumar murder case, the Pramod Mahajan murder case, and the 2008 Mumbai attack, further underscores his immense impact on the Indian legal landscape.

Following the execution of Ajmal Kasab, one of the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Nikam expressed profound sentiments, stating that it signified a significant victory for India. He emphasized that by bringing Kasab to justice, India paid homage to the brave policemen and innocent civilians who lost their lives in the tragic events of the terror attack.

Nikam will be competing against Congress's Varsha Gaikwad in the elections. The BJP decided not to nominate Poonam Mahajan, the current MP, for the Mumbai North Central seat. She had won this seat in 2014 and 2019.

Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats, making it the second-largest contributor after Uttar Pradesh.