Bhiwandi East MLA Rais Shaikh has openly campaigned for Congress and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) candidates in the upcoming civic polls, creating a significant rift within his own Samajwadi Party (SP). This move, which includes urging voters to support Congress, directly challenges SP's official candidates. SP leadership is reportedly considering disciplinary action against Shaikh, who has stated his role will become clear after election results on January 16th. The internal conflict highlights a deep division within the party.