With the Maharashtra election campaign reaching its peak, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has turned the fight for Dharavi into a prestige battle, rallying all its forces to secure a win for Congress candidate Jyoti Gaikwad. Dharavi has become central to MVA’s political narrative against the ruling Mahayuti government, with top alliance leaders spotlighting the contentious Dharavi redevelopment project to attack the BJP-led coalition.
From the start of the campaign, Dharavi has been at the forefront of the MVA’s strategy, with leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Aaditya Thackeray, and Uddhav Thackeray repeatedly accusing the government of favoring its “crony capitalist friends” through the redevelopment project.
Taking a jab at the Mahayuti government, Maharashtra Congress in-charge Ramesh Chenithalla told the ITV network, “The Mahayuti government is the most corrupt government and it will be seen nowhere after polls.”
He also accused the Mahayuti government of handing over Dharavi’s lands to businessman Gautam Adani. “Gautam Adani wanted Dharavi. And today he is the most powerful person in Maharashtra,” Chenithalla said, referencing NCP AP chief Ajit Pawar’s remarks that Adani was present at a meeting at Sharad Pawar’s residence in Delhi in 2019, where top BJP leaders were also present.
High Stakes for Congress Candidate Jyoti Gaikwad
Jyoti Gaikwad, sister of Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad, has garnered significant backing from MVA’s top leaders, elevating Dharavi into a high-stakes contest for the alliance.
Prominent leaders, including Aaditya Thackeray from Shiv Sena (UBT), Jitendra Awhad from NCP, Varsha Gaikwad, and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, have been actively campaigning in the constituency. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi, a key Muslim face of the party, also campaigned in the area, which has a sizeable minority voter base. Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot held rallies in Dharavi to bolster support.
These collective efforts aim to connect with Dharavi’s diverse demographic groups, including migrant communities, small traders, and the working class, highlighting MVA’s commitment to inclusivity, according to party insiders.
Adani Dharavi Redevelopment Project Under Fire
At the heart of the election lies the controversial Adani Dharavi Redevelopment Project. The plan to modernize one of Asia’s largest slums has drawn sharp criticism from residents and local leaders, who fear displacement and loss of livelihoods.
The Gaikwad family, deeply rooted in the constituency, has taken a firm stance against the project. Speaking at rallies, Jyoti Gaikwad stated, “Dharavi’s redevelopment must prioritize the rights and welfare of its residents. No project should move forward at the expense of their homes, livelihoods, or community fabric.”
Her opposition has resonated with voters, many of whom view her as a champion of their interests. Her campaign emphasizes a redevelopment plan that is transparent, inclusive, and beneficial for Dharavi’s residents.
Meanwhile, the Mahayuti candidate, seen as a supporter of the Adani project, faces the challenge of addressing voters’ growing concerns.
Dharavi: A Symbol of Mumbai’s Spirit
With its rich cultural diversity and dense population, Dharavi is not just a constituency but a symbol of Mumbai’s resilience and vibrancy.
The MVA’s united front and the Gaikwad family’s grassroots approach have made this election a litmus test for the alliance’s ability to counter BJP’s narrative in Maharashtra.
Maharashtra will go to the polls on November 20, with vote counting scheduled for November 23.
