The battle for the North East constituency in Mumbai pits sitting BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate and former MP Sanjay Dina Patil. Kotecha’s focus lies on development, while Patil aims to complete unfinished projects he initiated during his previous tenure.
Patil, representing the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, prioritizes the permanent closure of dumping grounds in the constituency, a major concern for residents. He asserts that the area has become Mumbai’s dumping site in the past decade and advocates addressing local issues over national politics.
He expresses confidence in the MVA’s and Uddhav Thackeray’s popularity, stating that voters are receptive and eager for change. Patil contrasts this with the previous election, when he felt voters were evasive.
Kotecha, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of voting for individual candidates rather than political parties. He acknowledges the challenges faced by the constituency, including the presence of dumping grounds, the Dharavi PAP issue, and the need for better infrastructure.
Patil highlights the detrimental effects of dumping grounds on residents’ health, leading to multi-drug resistance and reduced lifespans. He pledges to address the Dharavi PAP issue, which involves the displacement of Dharavi residents to the North East constituency, and to build more hospitals to cater to the growing population.
Both candidates acknowledge the rapid transformation of the area from an industrial belt to a residential hub, leading to challenges with drainage and water supply. They express their commitment to improving infrastructure and providing facilities such as sports complexes, theatres, and recreation centers for the well-being of the residents.
