The Karwan Assembly constituency in Hyderabad has been a battleground for the BJP and AIMIM in previous elections. The BJP had control of the segment for three terms until 1994, but since then AIMIM has been winning the seat. In 2018, Kausar Mohiuddin won the seat with a majority of over 50,000 votes. Karwan has a long history dating back to the Nizam’s rule, known for its diamond-pearl market. There are still old buildings and temples and masjids from that time.
The majority of areas in Karwan are slums, so parties are promising houses under government schemes to woo voters. Providing basic civic amenities and employment opportunities are also major assurances being given to voters.
Karwan is an interesting political scenario and a tough battleground between the BJP and AIMIM. Though the BJP still has some hold in the constituency, it has been losing to AIMIM since 2018.
There is speculation that AIMIM may field a new candidate in the upcoming election, as Karwan has been their stronghold since 1999. Several leaders from the party are aspiring for the ticket, including corporator Mohammed Naseeruddin. However, Kausar Mohiuddin may be given another chance as he has been working for the people for decades.
Analysts say that although Karwan was considered a BJP stronghold in 1999, it has been a MIM citadel for the last six terms. It is likely to emerge victorious due to its influence over the Muslim population and development in the constituency.
Kausar will be hoping to continue AIMIM’s dominance. He will be facing Osman Bin AlHajri from the Congress and T Amar Singh from the BJP. The ruling BRS is fielding A Krishnaiah in a friendly contest.
The BJP has been alleging that AIMIM openly rigs the polls with the support of the police and election officials. Despite bringing this to the notice of the Election Commission, no action has been taken. In 2018, the BJP claimed that more than 60% of booths were rigged. Opposition parties have demanded a re-poll, alleging mass bogus voting and violation of the poll process.
