Mumbai: In response to what they perceive as inadequate political representation, a coalition of Muslim community leaders in Maharashtra has called for greater participation in the state assembly. The move follows their exclusion in the recent Lok Sabha elections and is fueled by the community’s substantial electoral presence and demographic significance in the state.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Secularwadi Muslim Front, encompassing various religious, social, and political representatives from the Muslim community, has initiated discussions with the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance and other political entities to ensure fair representation. The Front argues that the Muslim population, which constitutes 12% of the state as per 2011 Census, has been underrepresented, particularly in regions where they comprise over 15% of the local populace.
The Front has pinpointed over 60 assembly constituencies where Muslims have a decisive impact on election outcomes. Afroz Mulla, the group’s convener, emphasized that Muslims are not merely a vote bank but warrant respectful leadership roles. A planned march starting August 30 aims to traverse eight districts over eight days, fostering dialogue with political leaders and community members across party lines.
Mufti Sayyed Wasim Kasmi and other leaders involved highlight that their efforts are inclusive, appealing to all willing to acknowledge and act on their demands for proportional representation. This initiative has also garnered support from various community figures, including youth and professionals like Fazal Mujawar and lawyer Sufiya Shaikh, who advocate for representation that can drive policy changes and alleviate community concerns.
This push by the Secularwadi Muslim Front underscores a broader critique of the MVA alliance’s strategies, particularly its failure to field any Muslim candidates in the recent Parliamentary elections, despite the significant Muslim electorate in Maharashtra.