Stepping out of the iconic Dagdi chawl in Byculla, Geeta Gawli, clad in her signature oversized sunglasses, embarks on her evening campaign trail. This labyrinthine chawl was once the feared fortress of her father, the former underworld don turned politician, Arun Gawli. Now, Geeta is seeking her fourth consecutive term as a corporator, asking for votes with the familiar moniker "Didi."
The Gawli Political Legacy in Mumbai's Heartland
The political landscape of central Mumbai's Ward 112 is uniquely shaped by the Gawli name. Geeta is contesting from this ward, while her younger sister, Yogita, is making her electoral debut from the neighbouring constituency. Their father, Arun Gawli, founded the Akhil Bharatiya Sena (ABS) and served as an MLA from Chichpokli between 2004 and 2009. Although he was present when his daughters filed their nomination papers, he has stayed away from the daily rigours of campaigning. However, his presence looms large on campaign posters, which feature him in a Gandhi topi and white kurta pyjama.
The ward itself is a study in contrasts, located in the city's erstwhile mill precinct. Here, old, crumbling chawls and dilapidated shops stand alongside modern, gated high-rises. The electorate is a diverse mix of Muslim, Hindu, and Dalit voters, each with their own priorities and concerns.
Development Claims and Voter Sentiments
On the campaign trail, accompanied by her mother Asha, Geeta highlights her work and future promises. "I am focusing on redevelopment projects to ensure that they do not remain pending for years," she states. "During my tenure, I focused on CC roads and on providing drinking water." Her message is amplified by loudspeakers blaring "Vote for the whistle," the election symbol of the ABS.
Many residents acknowledge her accessibility and assistance. Abdul Majid from A N Traders shares, "She sent a recommendation to Nair Hospital to get my heart surgery done at a very subsidised rate two years ago." Such testimonials form the bedrock of her campaign, portraying her as a corporator who delivers.
Challenges: Legacy, Alliances, and Anti-Incumbency
However, the campaign is not without significant challenges. Some voters express apprehension about the party's potential alliances. "What is the point in voting for her then? It is a vote for the BJP," says a Muslim vegetable vendor, reflecting concerns that the ABS might support the Bharatiya Janata Party in larger political equations.
Furthermore, the formidable legacy of her father casts a complex shadow. Arun Gawli was convicted for the 2007 murder of Shiv Sena corporator Kamlakar Jamsandekar. Released on bail last year after 18 years in prison, with his appeal still pending, his past instills a sense of unease among some. A resident from the ward admits, "We fear the use of muscle power and dadagiri. Money power as well," indicating that the old fears associated with the Gawli name haven't completely faded.
Geeta also faces direct political competition. Ward 112 is reserved for women, and her rivals include Nazia Siddiqui from the Congress party and Amrin Abrani from the Samajwadi Party. While anti-incumbency is a factor she must contend with, Geeta believes her consecutive terms are an advantage. "It has helped me understand people's problems and actually get things done," she asserts.
As the campaign reaches its climax, the question remains whether Geeta Gawli's record as "Didi," the approachable corporator, will outweigh the weight of her father's notorious legacy as "Daddy" and the political calculations of a diverse electorate.
