Tehsildar’s report alleges Yunus Sheikh’s OBC certificate is not valid; officials indicate possible criminal case and impact on the corporator’s position
MUMBRA — A political row has begun in Mumbra in Maharashtra’s Thane District after a report raised questions over the validity of an Other Backward Class (OBC) certificate submitted by Yunus Sheikh, the father of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) corporator Sahar Sheikh.
The issue has led to uncertainty over Sahar Sheikh’s position, with discussions taking place both in political circles and on social media about whether the corporator’s post could be declared invalid.
According to a nine-page document issued by Thane Tehsildar Umesh Patil, the OBC certificate used by Yunus Sheikh to support his daughter’s candidature in a reserved seat has been deemed invalid. The report has also recommended that the Thane Divisional Office take further steps, including the possibility of registering a criminal case.
The complaint was originally filed by Farah Siddiqui, a candidate who contested against Sahar.
Following the release of the Tahsildar report, reactions from officials have added to the seriousness of the matter. Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shersath stated, “The OBC investigation committee has found Yunus Sheikh’s certificate to be fake. Therefore, action will be taken to file a criminal case against him and also to declare Sahar Sheikh’s position as a corporator null and void.”
However, Yunus Sheikh has rejected the claims and questioned the nature of the document being circulated. Speaking to Clarion India, he said, “The copy of the decision in question is not an order but a report. I will hold a detailed press conference on the issue.”
His response indicates that the family intends to challenge the findings and present their side of the story before any conclusion is drawn.
Legal experts note that a distinction exists between a report and a final administrative order. If the document is only a preliminary finding, further review or appeal may take place before any action is enforced. This means the status of Sahar Sheikh as a corporator may not change immediately.
At present, no official announcement has been made declaring the corporator’s position vacant. Authorities are expected to examine the report and follow due legal process before taking any final decision.
Residents in the area are closely watching the situation. One local said, “We want clarity. If there is any issue, it should be resolved through proper legal process, not rumours.”
Another resident added, “Elected representatives should be given a fair chance to respond. The truth should come out after a full investigation.”
The coming days are likely to be important, especially with Yunus Sheikh announcing a press conference. His explanation may shape the next steps in the case.
