Harshita Narwekar Counters Dynasty Politics With Civic Record in Mumbai BMC Polls
Harshita Narwekar is contesting from ward 225 in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. She faces criticism over dynastic politics as a relative of BJP leader Rahul Narwekar. Harshita emphasizes her past work as a councillor to counter this tag.
Narwekar Kin Highlight Individual Records
Three relatives of Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar are contesting the BMC polls. They are pitching their individual records and civic work. Brother Makarand Narwekar and sister-in-law Harshita Narwekar have previous councillor experience. First-timer cousin Gauravi Shivalkar Narwekar focuses on local issues.
The shadow of Rahul Narwekar looms large over their campaigns. He is the most famous politician in the family. All three candidates maintain that their tickets are based on merit.
Harshita's Campaign Strategy
Harshita Narwekar conducted door-to-door campaigning on Tuesday. She stated that her past work as a councillor helps shed the dynasty tag. "I have been given a ticket based on my past work," Harshita said. "I want to continue with the work I have been doing as a corporator."
She believes her work will align with having the BJP in the Centre, state, and BMC. Harshita's change of seat was announced recently. She admits getting less time to campaign but claims awareness of local issues.
Rahul Narwekar has been an MLA in the area. This familiarity aids her understanding of ward-specific problems.
Electoral Competition and Allegations
Harshita contests against Shiv Sena's Sujata Sanap. Sanap is the sitting corporator from before the term ended in 2022. The decision on Harshita's candidature seat change was sudden.
She relies on Rahul Narwekar's footprint in every corner of the ward. Key local issues include:
- Management of waste
- Redevelopment of dilapidated buildings
- Past work with citizens
At the campaign's start, Rahul Narwekar faced allegations of interference. Eight aspiring candidates approached the Bombay High Court. They accused him of forcing the Returning Officer and police to reject nomination forms.
Narwekar denied these allegations as politically motivated. All three candidates support this stand. They also face competition from independents fighting the dynasty narrative.
BJP's Stance on Dynasty Politics
The BJP denies favoring any dynasty. The party states that experienced councillors received tickets based on work. Senior leaders claimed unawareness of Gauravi's connection with Narwekar until after ticket allocation.
The three candidates draw from each other's experience in the area. Rahul Narwekar participates in sabhas during the campaign. They focus on personal touch through door-to-door outreach.
Mumbai's BMC elections highlight ongoing debates about political dynasties. Candidates like Harshita Narwekar strive to prove their worth beyond family ties.
