Residents of old Delhi express their concerns and priorities, calling for improvements in basic infrastructure, healthcare, and education for Muslim children
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — As the election fervour heats up across Delhi, voters in the historical Ballimaran constituency in old Delhi have made their priorities clear ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. The people of Ballimaran, a prominent Muslim-majority area steeped in history and culture, are voicing their concerns over essential issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Speaking in their distinct style, the residents made it clear that they would vote for a candidate who can deliver on these basic needs.
During a visit to this iconic locality, where the famed poet Mirza Ghalib once lived, voters were seen chewing paan as they discussed the future of their neighbourhood. Among them, Mohammad Shahid, a long-time resident of Ballimaran, shared his perspective on the issues plaguing the area. “No work has been done in Ballimaran for years,” said Shahid, as he chewed on his paan. “The first thing that needs attention is fixing the sewerage system. The second priority is ensuring that proper medical facilities are provided to the people here.”
Shahid’s concerns are echoed by many in this bustling locality, where daily life continues amidst the congestion of narrow lanes and old buildings. Over the years, the area has seen little development, leaving the local community with deep frustrations about the lack of essential services.
Rahman, another long-time resident whose family has lived in Ballimaran for generations, believes that the educational needs of Muslim children should be at the forefront of the upcoming elections. “This is a Muslim-majority seat, and we feel that Muslim children need good education,” said Rahman while continuing to chew his paan. “The issue of education should be the main focus in this election. Whoever can provide quality education here, that is the person who deserves our vote.”
Education has emerged as one of the key issues in this election cycle, as the residents of Ballimaran are demanding better facilities, teachers, and schools to meet the needs of their children. Many feel that their children deserve equal access to quality education, which has often been a challenge in this densely populated area.
The local political landscape in Ballimaran is currently dominated by a three-way battle, with AAP, Congress, and BJP each fielding their own candidates. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has once again placed its trust in Imran Hussain, the current minister, a well-known Muslim face in the region. Hussain has previously represented the area and is a prominent member of the AAP. His candidacy has been met with support from many who believe he has made some headway in improving local issues, though the progress is far from enough for the people of Ballimaran.
On the other hand, Congress has nominated Haroon Yusuf, an experienced leader who has represented Ballimaran multiple times in the past and served as a cabinet minister during the Sheila Dikshit government. Yusuf is known for his familiarity with the area and its people, and many locals trust him to address their long-standing concerns.
Despite the presence of seasoned candidates, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to struggle in Ballimaran, with no history of significant electoral success. For the upcoming elections, the BJP has fielded Kamal Bagri, but it remains to be seen if the party can overcome its challenges in this stronghold of the other parties.
The residents of Ballimaran are clear about their expectations: they want their next representative to focus on the real issues affecting their lives. With education and healthcare taking precedence, voters are looking for a candidate who understands the needs of their community and will work towards real, meaningful change.
As the days to the elections continue to count down, political parties are preparing their strategies, but it is clear that the people of Ballimaran will make their choice based on who can deliver the best opportunities for their children’s education and their community’s healthcare needs. The voices of the residents, expressed candidly and with conviction, indicate that the upcoming Delhi elections will be crucial in shaping the future of this vibrant but neglected locality.