BJP Minister Ashish Shelar Champions Candidate Sayali Kulkarni in Andheri Campaign
State Income Tax and Culture Minister Ashish Shelar took charge of a crucial campaign meeting on Sunday evening. The event unfolded at a clubhouse within Lokhandwala Complex in Andheri. Shelar, who also serves as the guardian minister for the suburbs, presided over the gathering to bolster support for BJP candidate Sayali Kulkarni.
Sayali Kulkarni's Background and Electoral Bid
Sayali Kulkarni, a 32-year-old professional from the media advertising sector, is contesting the upcoming civic election from Ward 60. Her political lineage is notable as the daughter of RSS leader Raghunath Kulkarni. The meeting was organized by a coalition of community groups, including the Lions Club of Young Achievers, the Rotary Club of North End, and the Bharat Vikas Parishad.
During his address, Minister Shelar made a firm commitment to support Kulkarni throughout her potential tenure. He emphasized the BJP's innovative approach, stating the party would "use technology and AI to solve all problems." Shelar also seized the moment to critique former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, who was concurrently holding a public meeting with his cousin Raj Thackeray at Shivaji Park.
Kulkarni's Vision for Ward 60
Candidate Sayali Kulkarni outlined a clear agenda aimed at delivering an "updated, upgraded lifestyle" for her constituency. Her key promises include:
- Creating encroachment-free roads to improve traffic flow and safety.
- Evicting illegal hawkers, particularly those suspected of using fake Aadhaar cards.
- Ensuring transparent administration to build public trust.
Kulkarni expressed gratitude towards the 'Sanghatan', a collective comprising the RSS, BJP, and Bajrang Dal. She acknowledged their efforts in promoting her candidacy across various platforms.
Local Support and Pressing Issues
The campaign meeting attracted a diverse array of attendees. Former BJP MLA Bharati Lavekar was present, alongside representatives from the BJP and RSS. The event also drew scores of local business owners, including Gujarati, Marwari, and Sindhi entrepreneurs from Lokhandwala, many of whom are known BJP supporters.
Although the Sabha did not feature direct interaction with the audience, a representative briefly highlighted several critical issues plaguing Lokhandwala. These challenges include:
- Severe dust pollution caused by rampant redevelopment projects.
- The persistent hawker menace disrupting daily life.
- Destruction of mangroves affecting local ecology.
- Improper garbage collection leading to sanitation problems.
- A decades-long wait, specifically 40 years, for a local fire brigade station.
Electoral Context and Ward Reservation
The political landscape in Ward 60 has shifted due to reservation policies. The previous corporator, Yogiraj Dabhadkar, has been relocated to contest the neighbouring Ward 59. This move occurred after Ward 60 became reserved for women candidates, paving the way for Sayali Kulkarni's entry into the electoral fray.
As Mumbai prepares for the civic elections, this campaign meeting underscores the BJP's strategic efforts to secure the ward. With strong backing from senior leaders and a focus on local issues, Kulkarni's bid represents a significant push in the city's political dynamics.
