Abdul Sattar Secures Congress Ticket for Nanded (North) Seat, Exciting Supporters

Team Carion 

MUMBAI – The Muslim community of Nanded is excited as the Congress party has officially announced the candidacy of Abdul Sattar Abdul Ghafoor for the upcoming assembly elections. The former mayor’s nomination from the Nanded (North) constituency marks a significant moment for local Muslim leaders and activists who have long advocated for greater representation within the party.

On Sunday night, Congress released its fourth list of candidates, drawing attention to Abdul Sattar’s name amidst the roster. His selection comes after years of appeals from Nanded’s Muslims, who have consistently urged the party to consider Muslim leaders for electoral positions. In the past elections of 2014 and 2019, party officials had often dismissed these requests, claiming that Muslim candidates struggled to secure votes in predominantly non-Muslim areas. However, this time, a formal letter from Muslim leaders and social activists advocating for a Muslim candidate seems to have influenced Congress’s decision.

Abdul Sattar Abdul Ghafoor is not new to the political landscape of Nanded. Having served as the mayor, he possesses considerable influence and recognition in the community. His steadfast loyalty to the Congress party, especially after the departure of former ally Ashok Chavan to the BJP, has garnered him respect among party workers and constituents alike. Sattar has been instrumental in uniting Muslim supporters under the Congress banner, reinforcing the community’s ties to the party.

On Monday, Sattar, accompanied by a throng of supporters, filed his nomination papers with enthusiasm, showcasing his political clout in a rally that underscored his readiness for the electoral battle. His supporters filled the streets, marking the day with songs and celebrations as they accompanied him to the collector’s office to officially submit his candidacy.

The day was marked by a flurry of political activity in Nanded, with multiple candidates from various parties submitting their nomination papers. Alongside Abdul Sattar, Mohan Humbarde, another Congress candidate from Nanded (South), also held a rally as part of the nomination process. Additionally, Balaji Kalyankar from the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and Vanchat candidate Prashant Angule, led by Prakash Ambedkar’s son Shajat Ambedkar, also made their nominations known, further energising the political atmosphere in the region.

Abdul Sattar’s candidacy is not only a victory for him but also a significant step toward addressing the concerns of the Muslim electorate in Nanded. As elections approach, his ability to galvanise support within the community and navigate the complex dynamics of local politics will be crucial. The Congress party’s decision to field Sattar may signal a shift in strategy, aiming to bolster its standing among minority voters who have been seeking representation and a voice in the assembly.

With the assembly elections on the horizon, all eyes will be on Nanded to see how this pivotal decision plays out and whether it resonates with the broader electorate.