Mumbai: As Maharashtra heads to the polls on November 20, the Dharavi assembly constituency is seeing intense campaigning with the redevelopment project emerging as the central issue. Dharavi, one of Asia’s largest slum clusters, has long struggled with inadequate housing, sanitation, and traffic congestion. But the Adani group-led Dharavi redevelopment plan has now taken center stage, stirring up emotions and shaping voting patterns.

A survey is currently underway to identify residents eligible for rehabilitation, a process that will determine whether they benefit from the redevelopment or face displacement. While eligible residents stand to gain, those deemed ineligible are raising concerns, particularly regarding relocation. This uncertainty has significantly impacted the election campaign, with candidates tapping into residents’ anxieties.

Congress Faces Growing Discontent in Dharavi

For over four decades, the Congress has dominated Dharavi politics, beginning with Eknath Gaikwad, followed by his daughter Varsha Gaikwad. However, the Congress’s reliance on a single family for representation is now under scrutiny. This election sees Varsha’s sister, Dr. Jyoti Gaikwad, contesting against Rajesh Khandare of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

Dr. Jyoti Gaikwad, an ayurvedic doctor, is critical of the redevelopment plan. She advocates for a sector-wise development approach, stressing that any project must take residents’ needs into account.

She remarked, “In any redevelopment project, residents must be taken into confidence,” advocating for a model that aligns with the community’s interests.

Rajesh Khandare, on the other hand, emphasized the long history of the redevelopment project and its delayed implementation. “Dharavi redevelopment is not a new concept. It was introduced in 1985 and has faced several delays,” he said, asserting that the current government’s progress marks a welcome change.

He criticizes opposition efforts to block the plan, calling it a vital step for Dharavi’s development.

Voters Divided Over Redevelopment

The redevelopment plan divides the electorate in Dharavi. Eligible residents tend to support the ruling alliance, viewing the project as a long-awaited opportunity. “For years, we’ve heard promises of a home. Now, it feels like our dreams are coming true,” said one resident who qualified for a new home.

On the other hand, many ineligible residents express dissatisfaction with the scheme. One frustrated resident said, “We’ve lived here for decades, but now they’re telling us we don’t qualify for a home,” arguing that the redevelopment should not exclude long-term residents from its benefits.

As the election day approaches, the future of Dharavi’s redevelopment remains a key issue that could swing the votes in this crucial assembly seat. Both candidates and residents are keeping a close eye on the survey results, which could significantly affect the outcome.