A recent statement by AIMIM leader and former MLA Waris Pathan, suggesting that a burqa-clad practising Muslim could become the Mayor of Mumbai, has drawn sharp criticism from a section of Muslim leaders and community figures in the city. They have accused Pathan of making divisive remarks that risk polarising voters and diverting attention from pressing civic issues.
Leaders Decry Diverting from Real Issues
Prominent voices have united in their condemnation, arguing that the focus should remain on governance and development, not religious identity. Asif Farooqui, the Mumbai Congress general secretary and a court member of AMU & Jamia Millia Islamia University, articulated this sentiment clearly. He stated that Mumbai requires a mayor who is secular, honest, accessible, and fully dedicated to development.
"Mumbai needs a mayor who is secular, honest, accessible, and fully focused on development — strengthening civic infrastructure, housing, healthcare, employment and disaster management," Farooqui said. He emphasised that the ideal leader "doesn't indulge in polarising politics and use us to divert from our real issues."
Community Calls for Competence Over Identity
Echoing this perspective, businessman Nasir Jamal labelled Pathan's comment as "wishful thinking" designed to distract the community. Jamal stressed that the fundamental needs of all Mumbaikars, including Muslims, are universal and apolitical.
"Muslims, like others, need clean air, good roads and health infrastructure. This polarising politics of looking for a mayor based on religious identity is dangerous," Jamal asserted. He further advised that "All communities should first elect competent corporators," highlighting the importance of grassroots governance over symbolic positions.
Appeal for Unity and Political Maturity
In response to the controversy, Asif Farooqui revealed that he has made an appeal to the city's Muslim population. He has urged them to stay united, vigilant, and politically mature to effectively identify and isolate divisive elements. This call for introspection extends to figures within the community itself.
"I have appealed to the city Muslims to stay united, vigilant, and become politically mature so that they can identify and isolate divisive elements, including those from within," Farooqui added. This statement underscores a broader concern about political rhetoric that prioritises identity politics over substantive policy discussions concerning Mumbai's future.
