AIMIM Expresses Discontent Over ISLAM's Communication Strategy in Malegaon
Members of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) in Nashik voiced significant frustration on Friday, accusing the Indian Secular Largest Assembly of Maharashtra (ISLAM) of taking their support for granted in the Malegaon Municipal Corporation. The party indicated it has alternative options that might be considered at an appropriate time, signaling potential shifts in the local political landscape.
Social Media Demands Spark Tension
Malegaon MLA Mohammed Khalique revealed that although AIMIM had expressed willingness to support ISLAM in governing the civic body, ISLAM chose to communicate primarily through social media posts demanding unconditional support. "Our senior state and national office bearers had clearly conveyed that AIMIM was ready to extend support after the initial round of discussions," Khalique stated. "ISLAM was expected to present its development plan to us, but that has still not happened. Instead, they continue to put out statements on social media."
Coalition Mathematics and Political Boundaries
Khalique explained that through social media, ISLAM appeared to expect AIMIM to back a coalition that already possessed the required numbers—35 seats of ISLAM, five of Samajwadi Party (SP), and three of Congress. "They have the strength of 43 seats, which is enough in the civic body," he noted. "We have 21 corporators, Shiv Sena has 18 and BJP has two." He emphasized that AIMIM has made it clear the party will not align with communal forces and understands its boundaries, not pushing for major portfolios.
The Malegaon MLA further clarified that AIMIM does not have women corporators eligible for the mayoral post, which is reserved for women this term. "Our priority is to understand the development roadmap for the city and the wards represented by our corporators," he asserted.
Current Political Configuration in Malegaon
In the Malegaon corporation elections:
- ISLAM secured 35 seats
- AIMIM won 21 seats
- Shiv Sena obtained 18 seats
- Congress, BJP and SP secured three, two and five seats respectively
ISLAM and SP have already aligned, and Congress has shown willingness to join them. However, the ISLAM faction led by former MLA Asif Shaikh is hoping to bring AIMIM on board for greater stability in the municipal administration.
Alternative Alliances and Future Possibilities
When questioned about whether AIMIM was considering seeking support from Shiv Sena instead, Khalique responded cautiously, stating "Our party will decide"—leaving the door open for potential political realignments.
ISLAM's Response and Development Focus
Responding to AIMIM's allegations, ISLAM office bearers stated the party's intention is to bring all like-minded elected members together for Malegaon's development. "We want a stable government and are reaching out to every party," an ISLAM representative said. "We hope AIMIM presents its terms, and we are open to discussing them."
The political dynamics in Malegaon continue to evolve as parties navigate coalition-building while addressing development priorities for the city's residents.
