The assembly by-elections held in Maharashtra have given a new direction to the politics of the state. In these elections, the grand alliance (BJP, Shiv Sena Shinde faction and others) almost wiped out the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). But Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar constituency of Mumbai attracted a lot of attention this time. This area is considered Muslim dominated, where the number of Muslim voters is more than 50%.
Here the election battle took an interesting turn. State chief and current MLA of Samajwadi Party (SP) Abu Asim Azmi (Abu Azmi) once again won. His main rivals were Nawab Malik of NCP and Atiq Ahmed Khan of AIMIM.
Abu Azmi’s lead despite tough competition
Abu Azmi’s political influence has persisted on this seat for decades. He has won consecutive elections in 2009, 2014 and 2019. This time too, his lead was clearly visible from the initial trends of vote counting.
Nawab Malikwho was made its candidate by NCP, was seen limited to fourth place. Whereas AIMIM’s Atiq Ahmed Khan attracted a large portion of Muslim voters, due to which he remained in second place. Mahayuti candidate associated with Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena Suresh Patil Remained in third place.
Division of Muslim vote bank: Big danger averted
Before the elections, there were fears that division of Muslim votes could benefit the ruling coalition. There was talk within the Muslim community about support between AIMIM and NCP. However, Abu Azmi kept his position strong and ensured that his political stature was maintained.
Shiv Sena and BJP had jointly made a strategy against Abu Azmi. BJP had already made it clear that it would not support Nawab Malik. Instead he supported Shiv Sena candidate Patil.
Political Analysis: Why did Abu Azmi win?
Many reasons are being given behind Abu Azmi’s victory:
- Local engagement and credibility: Azmi has been associated with the voters of Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar for the last several years. His strong ground network and public relations made him invincible.
- development issue: Azmi stressed on improving basic facilities like roads, water and health services in the region. It went in his favor.
- muslim voter: A large section of Muslim voters remained united in support of Abu Azmi.
- NCP and AIMIM performance: NCP and AIMIM failed to gain the trust of Muslim voters.
Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar: A political testing ground
This seat is not just a constituency but also a mirror of Maharashtra politics. The results here give important indications in the politics of the state.
Statistics and trends
- Abu Asim Azmi (SP): in first place
- Atiq Ahmed Khan (AIMIM): in second place
- Suresh Patil (Shiv Sena – Mahayuti): in third place
- Nawab Malik (NCP): fourth place
impact on future politics
This victory of Abu Azmi has made it clear that the wave of Mahayuti alliance did not spread everywhere. The influence of local leaders is more important in Muslim dominated areas. This result also hints at the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Lesson for Shiv Sena and BJP,
Mahayuti will have to learn a lesson from this defeat. His attempt to break into the Muslim vote bank failed. Moreover, the weak performance of NCP candidate like Nawab Malik is also a matter of concern for the MVA.
Abu Azmi’s message of victory
Abu Azmi’s victory proved that political experience, connection with the public and priority of development always leads to success. The support of the Muslim community and his efficient strategy made him victorious once again.
