Mumbai civic polls: Muslim electorate boosts AIMIM, Congress; rejects BJP
Mumbai: Early trends and declared results of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections have shown that Muslim voters played a decisive role in several parts of the city, strengthening alternative political voices, backing trusted local representatives, and decisively rejecting the BJP, particularly in Dharavi.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the most significant shift was witnessed in the MS East ward, a Muslim-populated belt comprising Mankhurd, Deonar, Shivaji Nagar, Rafi Nagar, Cheeta Camp and adjoining areas, where the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) emerged as the single largest party. AIMIM secured eight wards, largely at the expense of the Samajwadi Party, which had earlier enjoyed influence in the area.
Party workers said voters supported AIMIM for its focus on basic civic issues such as housing, water supply, sanitation and safety.
In Kurla, voting patterns largely favoured Congress and familiar local political families. Congress corporator Ashraf Azmi won Ward 165, while his daughter Dr Suman secured victory in Ward 167, reflecting continued public trust. Congress also retained influence through victories by Aamir Khan in Ward 162 and Ayesha Vinu in Ward 179.
The Maloni–Malad belt also witnessed a strong Congress showing, with four seats won, including a major victory by Haider Ali Sheikh, son of MLA Aslam Sheikh, who secured the highest winning margin in the area. Congress candidates also defeated rivals from the Shiv Sena and Samajwadi Party in several closely fought contests.
In Dharavi, widespread resentment over the redevelopment project translated into a complete rejection of the BJP. Congress candidates won key wards, while other seats went to non-BJP formations. Residents said the vote reflected fears of displacement and anger over unilateral decisions affecting livelihoods and homes.
Overall, observers say the results underline a clear political message from Mumbai’s Muslim electorate—support for parties seen as responsive to local needs, rejection of hate-driven politics, and a growing willingness to shift allegiance where trust and performance outweigh ideology.
