In a recent statement, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya levelled strong criticism against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, accusing it of promoting what he called "vote jihad" in response to the Ulema Board’s 17-point demand letter, which offered electoral support to the alliance. As Maharashtra gears up for the upcoming elections on November 20, 2024, the All India Ulema Board has outlined its conditions, adding to the politically charged atmosphere. The MVA is set to contest against the ruling BJP-led coalition and Eknath Shinde's faction of the Shiv Sena. The support of the Ulema Board could play a crucial role in swaying Muslim voters, a key demographic in the state.

The All India Ulema Board has put forward several key demands as part of its support for the MVA, seeking commitments on various issues related to the Muslim community in Maharashtra. These include:

• Opposition to the Waqf Amendment Bill: The MVA must oppose and seek the repeal of this bill.
• Financial Support for Waqf Board: Allocation of ₹1,000 crores to the Maharashtra Waqf Board.
• Legislation Against Encroachments: A law to remove encroachments from Waqf properties.
• 10% Reservation for Muslims: Implementation of a 10% reservation for Muslims in government jobs and educational institutions.
• Police Recruitment Preferences: Preference in police recruitment for educated Muslims.
• Ban on RSS: A demand for a ban on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
• Legal Actions Against Controversial Figures: Immediate imprisonment of BJP leader Nitesh Rane and Ramgiri Maharaj, and the release of Salman Azheri, who has faced legal challenges over inflammatory statements.
• Protection Against Hate Speech: Implementation of laws against anyone who speaks disrespectfully about Prophet Muhammad.
• Monthly Stipend for Imams: A stipend of ₹15,000 per month for imams and Maulanas of mosques in Maharashtra.
• Survey of Confiscated Land: Conducting a survey to identify confiscated land belonging to mosques and graveyards.
• Land Allocation for Muslims: A demand for surveys to facilitate land allocation to Muslims.
• Reservation in Ticket Distribution: Allocation of 50% of election tickets to Muslim candidates by the MVA.
• Support for Minority Rights: Assurance of support for minority rights within governance frameworks.
• Inclusion in Development Schemes: Inclusion of Muslims in all developmental schemes initiated by the government.
• Addressing Socioeconomic Issues: Focus on addressing socioeconomic issues affecting the Muslim community.
• Cultural Representation: Ensuring representation of Muslim culture and heritage in state policies and programs.
• Educational Support Initiatives: Introduction of initiatives aimed at improving educational opportunities for Muslim youth.

NCP leader Sharad Pawar has acknowledged the conditions laid out by the All India Ulema Board and expressed his gratitude for their support. In response, Pawar has sent a letter to the Ulema Board, emphasising the significance of their backing in the upcoming elections. This gesture underscores the political importance of the Ulema Board’s influence, particularly in mobilising Muslim voters ahead of the November 2024 elections​.