The last decade has seen a dearth of Muslim representatives from these constituencies in the state assembly. Many in the community see this election as an opportunity to change that narrative
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – The bustling industrial city of Bhiwandi has become a focal point in Maharashtra’s political landscape as elections approach. With candidates vying for the Bhiwandi East and West assembly constituencies, it is increasingly evident that Muslim voters will play a decisive role in shaping the results. Political analysts and local leaders are emphasising the importance of unity among Muslim voters, asserting that cohesive action could pave the way for the success of their preferred candidates.
As the November 20 election fervour grips the city, national and provincial leaders have joined the fray, employing aggressive campaigns to secure victories for their parties. Amidst this flurry of activity, voters are left grappling with conflicting promises and slogans. However, political observers agree that in constituencies where Muslims form a significant portion of the electorate, their united support could be the key to success.
The Bhiwandi West constituency, a Muslim-majority area, has attracted 14 candidates, with the main battle expected among Congress’s Dayanand Churghe, BJP’s Mahesh Chogle, independent candidate Vilas Patil, Samajwadi Party’s Riaz Azmi, and Waris Pathan of All India Majlis Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM).
Churghe, representing the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), is facing challenges as a non-Muslim candidate in a Muslim-majority constituency. Additionally, his status as an outsider from a rural area has further complicated his campaign. Congress has deployed senior leaders such as Pawan Kheda, Nadeem Javed, and Naseemuddin Siddiqui to bolster Churghe’s efforts, with more leaders expected to join them later. Despite these efforts, local analysts believe Churghe’s success hinges on convincing Muslim voters to overlook his outsider status.
Three-term BJP MLA Mahesh Chogle faces a tough re-election bid. His prospects are hindered by the presence of three strong non-Muslim candidates, which may dilute his voter base. Furthermore, Muslim voters have expressed concerns about his past rhetoric, which has sparked controversy in the community. Despite these hurdles, BJP leaders like Vinod Tawde have rallied behind Chogle in hopes of securing a victory.
Vilas Patil, a former Congress ticket contender running independently, has gained attention with his energetic padyatras. Many prominent local figures have expressed support for him, but his image is marred by allegations that his developmental work has been confined to Shivaji Chowk, neglecting the city’s broader needs.
Riaz Azmi, the Samajwadi Party candidate, has captured the imagination of many voters with his unblemished record and grassroots activism over the past three years. His close connections with the community have earned him widespread support. Party stalwarts such as Dharminder Yadav and Mata Prasad Pandey have lent their support, amplifying his campaign’s reach.
Waris Pathan of the AIMIM has leveraged the party’s stronghold among Muslims. The party’s national president Asaduddin Owaisi and his brother Akbaruddin Owaisi have led aggressive campaigns, highlighting AIMIM’s commitment to representing Muslim voices in governance. Pathan’s ground-level connect through padyatras and corner meetings has resonated with voters.
With four prominent candidates vying for Muslim support, community leaders fear a fractured vote could prevent a Muslim representative from reaching the assembly. “The Muslim community must unite to ensure its collective voice is heard,” said a local activist. “Dividing votes will only weaken our representation in the state assembly.”
In Bhiwandi East, the contest is largely between sitting MLA Raees Shaikh of the Samajwadi Party and Santosh Shetty of the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction).
Raees Shaikh has anchored his campaign on a strong developmental track record, citing completed projects and initiatives that have directly benefited the constituency. His ability to mobilise Muslim voters has been evident in his well-attended rallies, where influential local leaders have pledged their support. “Our focus is on unity and progress,” Shaikh said. “We want to ensure every vote counts towards a brighter future for Bhiwandi East.”
Santosh Shetty, a long-time corporator, has pitched himself as a candidate of change, promising to bring state-sponsored schemes to benefit voters across communities. Backed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Shetty’s campaign has focused on projecting a pro-development image while also making overtures to Muslim voters.
With Muslims holding significant sway in both constituencies, leaders across parties are actively courting their support. Political experts agree that Muslim voters have the power to determine outcomes in both constituencies if they vote strategically and unilaterally.
The last decade has seen a dearth of Muslim representatives from these constituencies in the state assembly. Many in the community see this election as an opportunity to change that narrative. “After 10 years, we have the chance to send a strong voice to the assembly,” said a local elder. “But this can only happen if we vote with a clear strategy.”
As the election draws closer, the focus remains firmly on the Muslim electorate of Bhiwandi East and West. Candidates are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to secure votes, with their success hinging on how effectively they can mobilise this critical voting bloc. Whether the Muslim community unites or its vote splinters will determine not just the outcome of these elections but also the trajectory of representation and governance in these constituencies for years to come.
