NCP Candidate Kaptan Malik Takes to Kurla Streets in BMC Campaign Push
On Friday evening, NCP candidate Kaptan Malik led a vibrant campaign through the bustling new mill road and its narrow bylanes in Kurla West. A live band provided energetic music as Malik and his party workers navigated the congested area, including Gandhi Nagar. The atmosphere buzzed with political fervor ahead of the BMC polls scheduled for January 15.
Malik Addresses Local Concerns in Bylane Gathering
Malik, a two-time corporator, stopped to address a crowd near the Mehboob Subhani Masjid in a bylane. He spoke directly about the pressing issues facing residents of BMC Ward No. 165. Malik highlighted problems with low water pressure and contaminated water supply. He assured the gathering that electing a capable corporator would lead to tangible solutions for these long-standing woes.
Despite being a newcomer to Ward No. 165, Malik displayed deep familiarity with the locality. He explained that his family moved to Kurla in 1977 and has maintained strong connections with the area and its people ever since. Previously, he represented the neighboring Ward No. 170, which is now reserved for women candidates.
Campaign Dynamics and Slogans Fill the Air
As Malik walked through the bylanes, loud announcements urged residents to press the 'ghadi wala button' on ballot units during the upcoming election. Party workers actively engaged with locals, knocking on doors and delivering persuasive messages. Some workers appealed directly, saying, "Abhi change karna hai" (Need to make a change now). Others chanted spirited slogans like "Captan Malik, aage bado, hum tumhare saath hain" (Go ahead, we are with you) and "Jeetenge bhai, jeetenge, ghadi wala jeetenge".
Malik faces a competitive race against Congress candidate Ashraf Azmi, a two-term corporator who represented Ward No. 165 from 2017 to 2022. This contest adds intensity to the campaign efforts in the ward.
Civic Issues Take Center Stage in Malik's Platform
Malik placed strong emphasis on civic infrastructure problems during his campaign. He specifically pointed to water-related difficulties and the urgent need for more playgrounds and gardens in the ward. Malik proposed organizing a meeting with NGOs, residents, and various government departments to tackle the chronic traffic congestion plaguing the area.
He criticized the lack of beautification projects in the ward, noting that traffic islands remain without high-mast lighting. Malik made a bold claim about his personal commitment, stating he has used his own money to address people's issues even when not serving as a corporator. He openly challenged anyone to find waterlogging in Ward No. 170, which he previously represented.
Residents Voice Concerns and Offer Support
Local residents raised several concerns during the campaign walk. They reported that Gandhinagar playground often attracts drug addicts and anti-social elements. Complaints also included problems with garbage collection and the absence of a library for students in the area.
In response, residents from Ward No. 170 came forward with strong testimonials for Malik. They praised his accessibility, mentioning he remains available even at 2 AM and is just a phone call away when needed. This personal endorsement from previous constituents added weight to his campaign promises.
The campaign trail in Kurla West showcased the critical civic issues dominating voter concerns as Mumbai prepares for its BMC elections. Malik's focus on water problems, traffic solutions, and community infrastructure reflects the daily challenges faced by residents in this congested part of the city.
