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Delhi Elections: Minorities Play Pivotal Role in Okhla Constituency

The upcoming Delhi elections are set to be a significant battleground, particularly in the Okhla constituency, where minority voters are expected to play a crucial role. With a diverse electorate and a history of political activism, the dynamics in this area are shaping the electoral strategies of various parties.

Key Takeaways

  • Diverse Electorate: Okhla has a significant population of Muslim voters (45%), along with Scheduled Castes, Gurjars, and others.
  • Political Landscape: The constituency has seen a shift in power from Congress to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in recent elections.
  • Candidates: Key candidates include Amanatullah Khan (AAP), Ariba Khan (Congress), Shifa-ur-Rehman (AIMIM), and Manish Chaudhary (BJP).
  • Local Issues: Residents face pressing issues such as water shortages, poor infrastructure, and sanitation problems.

The Constituency’s Demographics

Okhla is one of the largest assembly constituencies in Delhi, with an electorate of approximately 379,509 voters. The demographic breakdown is as follows:

  • Muslims: 45%
  • Scheduled Castes: 10%
  • Gurjars: 15%
  • Other Backward Classes (OBC): 12%
  • Punjabis: 6%

This diverse makeup influences the political strategies of the parties vying for votes.

Historical Context

Historically, Okhla has been a stronghold for the Congress party until the AAP’s Amanatullah Khan won the seat in 2015. The constituency has been a focal point for political activism, especially during the anti-CAA protests, which have left a lasting impact on voter sentiment.

Candidates and Their Campaigns

  1. Amanatullah Khan (AAP): The incumbent, Khan, is a prominent Muslim leader facing multiple legal challenges. He emphasizes his connection with the Muslim community and warns against vote-splitting that could benefit the BJP.
  2. Ariba Khan (Congress): A fresh face in the elections, Ariba is focusing on developmental issues, criticizing the AAP for its governance. She is backed by notable party figures and aims to reclaim the constituency for Congress.
  3. Shifa-ur-Rehman (AIMIM): Currently incarcerated, Rehman is running a campaign from jail, with his wife leading efforts to garner sympathy votes. His focus is on community rights and dignity.
  4. Manish Chaudhary (BJP): A former Congress member, Chaudhary is campaigning on development issues, arguing that the BJP can provide better governance and infrastructure improvements.

Local Issues at Stake

Residents of Okhla are grappling with several pressing issues that could influence their voting decisions:

  • Water Supply: Many areas face severe water shortages, particularly during the summer months.
  • Infrastructure: Poor road conditions and inadequate sewage systems are major concerns for voters.
  • Sanitation: Overflowing drains and garbage accumulation are common complaints among residents.

Conclusion

As the elections approach, the Okhla constituency stands as a microcosm of the broader political landscape in Delhi. With minority voters holding significant sway, the strategies employed by candidates will be crucial in determining the outcome. The interplay of community loyalty, local issues, and historical context will shape the electoral battle in this vibrant constituency.

Sources

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