A political campaign in Mumbai turned violent on Wednesday when a candidate for the Shiv Sena party was brutally attacked. Haji Saalim Qureshi, who recently joined the party, sustained multiple stab wounds in a shocking assault that has sent ripples through the city's political landscape.
Attack During Campaign Rally
The incident occurred in the Sant Dyaneshwar Nagar area of Bandra East. According to police reports, Qureshi was actively campaigning when an unknown assailant approached him. The attacker stabbed Qureshi four times in the stomach before fleeing the scene amidst the chaos of the rally.
Eyewitness accounts given to the police paint a harrowing picture. Qureshi had just entered a narrow lane when the assailant struck. "As his supporters were busy raising slogans, Qureshi's cries went unnoticed till he began bleeding," a police officer stated, citing the witnesses. The sudden nature of the attack allowed the perpetrator to escape before anyone could intervene.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Panicked supporters quickly rushed the injured candidate to a nearby hospital. Medical sources confirmed that the stab injuries were serious and required multiple stitches. Fortunately, authorities later confirmed that Qureshi is out of danger and recovering.
Law enforcement swung into action immediately. The Kherwadi police station registered a formal case of attempt to murder. Multiple police teams have been formed to track down the attacker. Investigators are scouring CCTV footage from the vicinity of the crime scene to identify the culprit and establish the sequence of events.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 8) Maneesh Kalwaniya addressed the media, stating, "The motive behind the attack will be known only after the accused is arrested." However, the primary suspicion, based on preliminary findings, points towards political opponents being behind the assault. The attack caused significant tension in the area, prompting police to dispatch additional forces to maintain control.
Political Background and Context
This attack adds a dangerous dimension to Mumbai's political climate. Haji Saalim Qureshi is a recent recruit to the Shiv Sena, having switched from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) in September 2024. His political ties run deep in Bandra East. His wife, Gulnaz Saalim Qureshi, is a former corporator from ward 92 in the same area and had also joined the Shiv Sena alongside her husband.
The brazen attack on a candidate in the middle of campaign activities raises serious concerns about the safety of political workers. As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the Mumbai Police to apprehend the attacker and uncover the full conspiracy behind this violent act.
