Shiv Sena candidate Haji Saalim Qureshi stabbed during BMC poll campaign in Mumbai
The city of Mumbai is known for its vibrant and bustling streets, but on Wednesday, a sense of shock and unease spread across the city as a Shiv Sena candidate, Haji Saalim Qureshi, was stabbed during an election campaign for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls. The incident occurred in the Bandra area of Mumbai, where Qureshi was conducting a door-to-door campaign, meeting with local residents and seeking their support for the upcoming elections.
According to eyewitnesses, Qureshi was suddenly attacked by unidentified individuals, who stabbed him in the stomach using a knife. The attackers fled the scene immediately, leaving Qureshi bleeding and in need of urgent medical attention. The incident sent shockwaves across the city, with local residents and politicians condemning the attack and demanding swift action against the perpetrators.
Qureshi was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. The hospital authorities have stated that his condition is stable, but he will require close monitoring and further treatment to ensure a full recovery. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for increased security measures to be put in place to protect candidates and voters during the election campaign.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls are scheduled to take place soon, and the campaign has been heating up in recent days. The polls are seen as a crucial test for the Shiv Sena, which has been a dominant force in Mumbai’s politics for decades. The party is facing stiff competition from other parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC).
The attack on Qureshi has raised concerns about the safety and security of candidates and voters during the election campaign. The Mumbai Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the attackers. The police have also increased security measures in the area, with additional personnel deployed to ensure that the campaign can continue without any further incidents.
The incident has also sparked a war of words between the Shiv Sena and other parties, with each side blaming the other for the attack. The Shiv Sena has accused the BJP of being behind the attack, while the BJP has denied any involvement. The INC has also condemned the attack, calling for calm and restraint during the election campaign.
The attack on Qureshi is a stark reminder of the risks and challenges faced by candidates and voters during election campaigns. It highlights the need for increased security measures to be put in place to protect those involved in the democratic process. The incident has also raised questions about the level of violence and intimidation that can be expected during the campaign, and the measures that need to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the campaign continues, it is essential that all parties and candidates prioritize the safety and security of their workers and supporters. The election commission and the police must also ensure that all necessary measures are in place to prevent any further incidents and to ensure a free and fair poll.
In conclusion, the attack on Shiv Sena candidate Haji Saalim Qureshi is a shocking and disturbing incident that highlights the risks and challenges faced by candidates and voters during election campaigns. It is essential that all parties and candidates prioritize the safety and security of their workers and supporters, and that the election commission and the police take all necessary measures to prevent any further incidents. The people of Mumbai deserve a free and fair poll, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that this is achieved.