Four Muslim candidates are in the fray as political dynamics shift in the November 20 voting
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW – The upcoming by-election for the Meerapur assembly seat in Uttar Pradesh on November 20 is expected to be a closely contested race, with all eyes on the Muslim community, which constitutes a significant portion of the electorate. Approximately 1.25 lakh of the 3.25 lakh voters in the constituency are Muslim, and their vote would be decisive.
Four major political parties have fielded Muslim candidates for the seat. Zahid Ansari represents the Azad Samaj Party, Shahnazar is the candidate for the Bahujan Samaj Party, Susubul Rana is standing for the Samajwadi Party, and Arshad Rana is contesting under the banner of the All India Majlis Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). The presence of these candidates underscores the growing importance of the Muslim vote in the region.
Political analysts note that the Muslim community has traditionally supported the Samajwadi Party and its alliances in this constituency. In the 2022 election, the Samajwadi Party and Lok Dal alliance secured a victory, with the Muslim vote playing a pivotal role. However, this time the political landscape has shifted, as Lok Dal has aligned with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This change has raised questions about how Muslim voters will respond.
The significance of Muslim voters in Meerapur cannot be overstated. If they unify behind a single party, that party is likely to gain a major advantage. However, if the Muslim vote becomes fragmented, parties like Lok Dal or Yash Maslahat Party could stand to benefit.
To influence the Muslim vote, prominent political figures are stepping up their campaigns. Akhilesh Yadav, the Samajwadi Party leader, and Asaduddin Owaisi, the AIMIM chief, are scheduled to visit Meerapur on November 16 and 18, respectively, to address public meetings.
Political analysts are closely monitoring the situation, as the outcome of this by-election may offer a glimpse into the broader political dynamics of the region. With Muslim voters holding the key to the victory, their choice will shape the future of Meerapur’s political landscape.