Former Mumbai Deputy Mayor Alka Kerkar Passes Away After Brief Illness
Mumbai witnessed a somber moment as former deputy mayor and Khar corporator of Ward No. 98, Alka Kerkar, passed away on Saturday following a brief illness. Her demise has left a significant void in the city's political landscape, particularly in the Vandre West constituency where she served with unwavering dedication.
A Distinguished Political Career
Alka Kerkar had recently been elected as a corporator for the third time in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections in January 2026, underscoring her enduring popularity and commitment to public service. Her political journey spanned over three decades, during which she established herself as a pillar of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the region.
Beyond her political roles, Kerkar was a retired teacher who led a remarkably simple life, devoted entirely to her party and the welfare of her constituents. She was widely admired for upholding the highest standards of integrity, consistently refusing to allow corruption or unauthorised practices to take root in her work.
Tributes and Condolences
Offering heartfelt condolences, Bandra (West) MLA Ashish Shelar expressed deep sorrow over her passing. In a statement, he said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of former deputy mayor and Ward No. 98 Corporator Alkatai Kerkar following a brief illness. A 3rd-term corporator in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, she shared an exceptional rapport with the people of her constituency."
Shelar further highlighted her tireless service, noting that she worked relentlessly for citizen welfare and set a benchmark for fellow corporators and political workers. He added, "Her unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of ordinary people makes her loss deeply felt in the Vandre West constituency. For over three decades, we have dedicated ourselves to serving the people of Vandre West Assembly constituency and advancing the work of the BJP. Today, I have lost one of the most important pillars of that journey."
Her passing has plunged the entire Vandre West community into deep grief, with many mourning the loss of a leader known for her dedication and simple, principled approach to politics.
Legacy of Service and Integrity
Alka Kerkar's legacy is marked by her exceptional rapport with the people, her role as a retired teacher, and her steadfast adherence to ethical standards. She was not only a political figure but also a community leader who prioritized the needs of ordinary citizens, making her a respected and beloved figure in Mumbai's civic affairs.
As the city mourns her loss, her contributions to public service and her unwavering integrity continue to inspire those in political and social spheres. Her family, friends, and colleagues have received widespread condolences, with messages of peace and remembrance echoing across the community.
