Lok Sabha elections 2024: AIMIM eyeing eight seats; may affect MVA

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) is planning to contest the Lok Sabha election in seven to eight constituencies in Maharashtra, two of which could be in Mumbai. This move by AIMIM could disrupt the vote bank of MVA.

According to official statistical data, there are 17 to 18 per cent Muslim voters in Mumbai. As Muslim voters are largely seen as opposing voters of the BJP, AIMIM's decision to contest the Lok Sabha election in Mumbai contrasts with its previous stance in 2019, when the party refrained from contesting due to its alliance with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi. "We are going to contest elections in the state," said Adv Waris Pathan, national spokesperson of the party. "We will contest at least 7-8 seats in Maharashtra and will announce our candidates soon," Pathan added.

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi at a rally. File Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

There are approximately 96.33 lakh registered voters in Mumbai, out of which 16 to 17 lakh voters are Muslim. In the North Central Mumbai constituency, around 24 per cent of the votes are Muslims. This constituency includes Vile Parle, Chandivli, Kurla, Kalina, Bandra East, and Bandra West. North West constituency, South Central, and South Mumbai constituency have around 19 per cent Muslim voters each.

The North East constituency, which includes the eastern suburbs, has 17 per cent of Mumbai's voters, and the North constituency has 8 per cent of Muslim voters. Muslims are known as core voters of the Congress. However, with AIMIM entering Maharashtra politics, Muslim votes will be divided.

"Yes, MVA can be affected because, in the present situation, MVA parties are receiving support from Muslim voters. AIMIM may challenge this vote bank. In a tight contest, this vote bank can be decisive. Additionally, MVA may also be affected by emotional statements from some AIMIM leaders. BJP can indirectly benefit," said Sanjay Patil, a political observer.

17% to 18%
Approx no of Muslim voters in Mumbai