Borivali, one of Mumbai’s key assembly constituencies and part of the Mumbai North Lok Sabha constituency, has long been a political stronghold of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Over the last four decades, the BJP has consolidated its dominance in the region, often relying on its established voter base among communities such as Gujaratis, Marwaris, and Jains. However, despite its historic hold, cracks are beginning to show in the form of local grievances and dissatisfaction with the choice of candidates, which has left many residents feeling disconnected from their elected representatives.
Disconnect Between Representatives and Constituents
One of the primary concerns among Borivali residents is the perceived lack of connection with their elected representatives. Many feel that Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) are chosen from outside the constituency and fail to represent local interests adequately. Local leaders like Prakash Surve and Pravin Darekar are often criticized for their inaccessibility, leaving residents with a sense of alienation. This sentiment extends to figures like Union Minister Piyush Goyal, who, despite receiving overwhelming support during elections, is rarely seen in the constituency, further fueling frustration among locals.
The BJP’s assumption of voter loyalty without addressing local concerns has raised questions about its understanding of Borivali’s unique challenges. Traffic congestion, water shortages, and delayed development projects are pressing issues that remain unaddressed. Additionally, the lack of key infrastructure, such as colleges, major hospitals, and IT parks, reflects a broader neglect of the constituency’s evolving needs.
Leadership Changes and Internal Discontent
The BJP’s decision to experiment with new candidates in Borivali has stirred controversy. Sanjay Upadhyay, a loyal party worker and the BJP’s current candidate, has sparked mixed reactions. Although Upadhyay has a long association with the party and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), his lack of a strong local connect and limited political accomplishments have raised concerns among residents.
This shift in leadership has also created internal turmoil. Gopal Shetty, a former MP and a beloved local leader, initially filed his nomination as an independent candidate after being overlooked by the BJP. While Shetty eventually withdrew his candidacy, his disappointment has not gone unnoticed. Known for his accessibility and inclusivity, Shetty was regarded as a man of the masses. His initiatives, which ranged from funding schools to supporting Madrasas, exemplified his commitment to all communities. Many residents view his absence as a loss for Borivali’s political fabric.
Similarly, Sunil Rane, another prominent BJP leader, is widely recognized for his dedication to addressing local issues. Rane’s open-door policy and active engagement with residents earned him significant respect. Despite winning the last assembly election with a margin of 95,021 votes, he was denied a ticket this time, leaving his supporters disheartened. According to the Praja Foundation, which assesses the performance of elected representatives, Rane ranked high in attendance and question-raising in the assembly, further underscoring his effectiveness as a public servant.
Vinod Tawde, a former MLA and minister, also contributed significantly to Borivali’s development during his tenure. From resolving issues like overdue police insurance premiums to beautifying the constituency, Tawde has left an indelible mark. His ability to maneuver challenges and strengthen the BJP’s position highlights the party’s missed opportunity in not leveraging his leadership further.
Developmental Concerns and Unfulfilled Promises
Borivali’s residents continue to grapple with numerous challenges that require immediate attention. Traffic congestion remains a significant issue, exacerbated by incomplete development plan (DP) roads, such as those near G.H. School and Carter Road No. 4, as well as pending projects like the Rajendra Nagar flyover. These delays add pressure to the already burdened Western Express Highway. Additionally, parking infrastructure near Borivali station and the completion of the BEST terminal are long overdue.
Environmental concerns, including the rejuvenation of the Dahisar River and illegal tree cutting, remain unresolved. Despite demands for GPS tagging of trees to monitor deforestation, implementation has yet to take place. Water shortages, particularly in areas like Charkop and Gorai, further add to the constituency’s woes. Encroachment issues and pending Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects, such as the 32-year-old Rajendra Nagar redevelopment, highlight systemic inefficiencies.
The absence of major educational institutions and healthcare facilities is another glaring gap. While Borivali boasts natural assets like the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and heritage temples, its potential as a tourism hub remains untapped. The lack of an IT park also limits employment opportunities for residents, particularly the middle and upper-middle-class demographics that dominate the constituency.
Opposition and the Rise of Alternatives
In this election cycle, opposition parties are attempting to capitalize on the BJP’s perceived shortcomings. The Maha Vikas Aghadi’s Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate, Sanjay Bhosale, has positioned himself as a challenger, promising to address long-standing issues such as traffic, water supply, and infrastructure. However, despite these promises, the BJP’s established voter base often overshadows opposition efforts.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has also fielded a candidate, Kunal Mainkar, who is focusing on local development. Unlike the BJP’s Sanjay Upadhyay, Mainkar is a local resident, which could give him an edge among voters seeking a grassroots leader. However, given Borivali’s history as a BJP stronghold, breaking the party’s dominance remains an uphill battle.
Historical Context and Political Legacy
Borivali’s political journey has been shaped by decades of BJP rule. From Ram Naik’s victory in 1978, which marked the constituency’s shift from Congress to the BJP, to its current status as a party fortress, the BJP’s influence is deeply entrenched. Leaders like Naik laid the foundation for this dominance, which has been maintained through consistent electoral victories.
However, the BJP’s reliance on party loyalty rather than candidate merit is being increasingly questioned. Sanjay Upadhyay’s candidacy reflects this trend. While his background as an RSS Swayamsevak and his role as BJP Mumbai’s Secretary highlight his organizational experience, his lack of visibility in the constituency raises doubts about his ability to address Borivali’s unique challenges.
Looking Ahead: The Voter’s Dilemma
As Borivali heads into another assembly election, voters are at a crossroads. While the BJP remains a formidable force, its recent decisions regarding candidate selection and the neglect of local concerns have left many residents dissatisfied. The party’s historical achievements, such as infrastructure development and community welfare initiatives, are being overshadowed by unresolved issues and a disconnect between representatives and constituents.
The election also offers an opportunity for opposition parties to make inroads, provided they can present a credible alternative. Whether voters choose to experiment with new faces or reaffirm their loyalty to the BJP will depend on how effectively candidates address the constituency’s pressing needs.
For Borivali, the future hinges on the ability of its leaders to bridge the gap between political promises and ground realities. Only time will tell if the BJP can retain its stronghold or if a new political narrative will emerge in this dynamic constituency.
