Mumbai South Central is a diverse constituency, encompassing a populace representing various socio-economic strata, ranging from affluent neighbourhoods to middle-class localities and densely populated slums. While pollution and inadequate housing for the underprivileged are persistent challenges across Mumbai, the densely packed nature of this constituency exacerbates these issues, making pollution control and improved housing standards the focal points in the Lok Sabha campaigns of major political parties. Since 1989, the Shiv Sena has maintained a stronghold over the constituency, clinching victory in this seat eight times out of the last nine elections. However, the split in the party has prompted both factions to intensify efforts to secure their support base, with incumbent Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale contesting against Shiv Sena UBT candidate Anil Desai. Infrastructure development's impact on the lives of the city's working-class residents emerges as a primary concern for the electorate. Many fear that the displacement due to ambitious projects like the redevelopment of Dharavi, which, according to some, threatens their way of life. "Dharavi has a total area of 600 acres. But for rehabilitation, the developer is seeking to acquire land almost double the size with 820 acres in Govandi, 64 acres in Mulund and 360 acre of salt pan land. This has led to major fear of displacement among locals from Dharavi. All other concerns with the redevelopment plans begin thereafter,” said Raju Korde, founder-member of Dharavi Redevelopment Committee, highlighting the apprehension, citing concerns over land acquisition and the potential displacement of locals. Similar sentiments resonate across other slum areas within the constituency such as Chembur, Anushakti Nagar and Govandi. Siddharth Colony in Chembur, embroiled in redevelopment disputes, faces an uncertain future. Ram Khare, member of the Siddhartha Colony Ghar Hakka Sangharsha Samiti, is sceptic about the efficacy of redevelopment projects, emphasising their delayed implementation and inadequate facilities. "Many of the slum rehabilitation projects that have come up are nothing but vertical slums. On the contrary, we have seen tall-posh-towers being built fast on acquired lands which have all the amenities and are sold at premium rates. Almost no care is taken to ensure that the poor have access to decent housing," Ram Khare, member of the Siddhartha Colony Ghar Hakka Sangharsha Samiti said. He added that while issues around redevelopment are highlighted around elections, they continue to remain unaddressed after the elections. Shiv Sena candidate Rahul Shewale reassures voters during his campaign rallies, pledging to ensure housing ownership for residents and mitigate displacement fears. “There should be no fear of displacement among locals. The idea of redevelopment is keeping in mind the development of the community as a whole. We are running with a slogan, Dukaan, Makaan, Muskaan (Shop, House, Smile) for the people from my constituency in the same areas where they are living,” he said. Conversely, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Anil Desai promises redevelopment aligned with residents' demands, prioritising their welfare. “We are not against development. But people from the constituency trust us with their demands. Our primary focus will be the profit of Dharavi residents,” said Desai. However, locals remain sceptical, asserting that merely replacing slums with high-rises doesn't address poverty eradication or social uplift. Health hazards stemming from dust pollution due to ongoing construction and development activities further compound residents' woes. Govandi residents, aggrieved by RMC plants' pollution, seek assurances from LS candidates regarding pollution control measures. The South-Central constituency, housing the Sena headquarters and Shivaji Park, symbolises a prestigious electoral battleground between rival factions of the party. The contest reflects ideological schisms within the Shiv Sena and its alliance with the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition. Rahul Shewale exudes confidence in securing a third consecutive victory, citing his grassroots work and multi-community support. Conversely, Anil Desai points to public discontent with Maharashtra's recent political upheavals. “People are looking at how their issues are unresolved for so long due to political reasons. People definitely seek change with faith that their issues will be resolved.” Desai said.
