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The nomination process for the upcoming BMC elections has commenced, yet formal alliances among most parties remain unannounced. Amidst this backdrop, discussions regarding who will become the next mayor of Mumbai have intensified. MIM leader Waris Pathan's assertion that a Muslim cannot become the mayor has drawn a sharp response from the Uddhav faction of Shiv Sena. Sanjay Raut, a leader from Uddhav Sena, pointed out that India has previously had Muslim presidents, including Zakir Husain, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He emphasized that this issue should not be overlooked and that the focus should shift towards progress.

As the BMC elections approach in 2026, Waris Pathan from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) spoke on the importance of political representation, referencing constitutional principles that guarantee equality for all citizens. He questioned why individuals with names like Pathan, Khan, Ansari, Sheikh, or Qureshi cannot aspire to the mayoral position, asserting that the constitution ensures equality for everyone. He expressed hope that one day, even a woman wearing a hijab could become the mayor of Mumbai, a day he believes will surely come.

In response to Pathan's remarks, Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) criticized the AIMIM leader during a press conference on Friday. Raut reiterated that India has had Muslim presidents in the past and highlighted the country's inclusive political history. He mentioned that during the BJP's tenure, several states had Muslim governors as well. Raut concluded by stating that this matter should be disregarded, allowing everyone to move forward.