In a surprising development in Hyderabad's political scene, the Congress party is reportedly contemplating nominating tennis star Sania Mirza as its candidate for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. This move capitalises on her popularity and celebrity status to establish a foothold in the city's electoral landscape.
As the Congress Central Election Committee gathers in Delhi to finalise its roster of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, speculations about Sania Mirza's potential inclusion are rife. Sources within the Congress party reveal that former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin championed the proposal for her candidacy. Azharuddin has close familial ties with the Mirza family, having married his son Mohammed Asaddudin to Sania's sister, Anam Mirza, in 2019.
Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency has a rich cultural heritage and diverse demographics. It has historically been a stronghold of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) party, led by Asaduddin Owaisi. However, the recent resurgence of the Indian National Congress in the region has posed a formidable challenge to AIMIM's dominance, setting the stage for an intense electoral battle. The last time Congress won from Hyderabad was in 1980 when K S Narayan was the party candidate. In 1984, Sultan Salahuddin Owaisi won the Hyderabad seat as an independent candidate and later, from 1989 to 1999, as an AIMIM candidate. After him, his elder son Asaddudin Owaisi became the party face and has held the seat since 2004.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Asaduddin got 517,471 votes, around 59 per cent, while Congress candidate Feroz Khan could manage only 49,944 votes. This time, the Congress wants to work out its winning impression in the state and cash in on the momentum in Hyderabad. However, the Congress drew nil in Hyderabad, particularly in assembly seats under the Hyderabad Parliament area. In the last November assembly elections, out of seven assembly seats under Hyderabad Parliament, AIMIM clinched six, while one went to the BJP. Hyderabad, Karwan, Charminar, Chandrayanguta, Yakutpura, and Bahadurpura remained with AIMIM IMIM, while T Raja Singh of the BJP continued his dominance in the Goshamahal seat.
Political pundits believe that the Congress is eyeing Sania Mirza's popularity. She was also the city's brand ambassador under Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS). She is female and from a minority community, which fits the bill. AIMIM leaders refused to comment on the reports of Sania Mirza as a prospective candidate as they believe that the Hyderabad seat is a done job for AIMIM.
The public is very excited and anticipatory about Sania Mirza's possible run for political office in Hyderabad. Her remarkable achievements in tennis and global recognition have given Congress party leaders hope that her popularity will resonate with voters, particularly women and young people, and increase the party's chances of winning.
However, Sania Mirza's entry into politics also presents significant challenges. As a political newcomer, she must navigate the complexities of electoral politics and effectively communicate her vision for Hyderabad. Additionally, she will face tough competition from experienced politicians such as Asaduddin Owaisi, who have already established themselves in the local political arena.
The news of Sania Mirza's possible candidacy in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Hyderabad has created a buzz in the city. Being a renowned sports personality and philanthropist, her inclusion in the Congress party's attempt to win the Hyderabad Lok Sabha seat, which AIMIM currently holds, is seen as a positive development if the rumours turn out to be true.
The Central Election Committee of Congress is currently considering its list of candidates, and all eyes are on Sania Mirza's potential candidacy. Party workers believe that her inclusion on the list will showcase the party's determination to improve its electoral prospects in Hyderabad. With her charm and commitment to public service, Sania Mirza has the potential to bring about significant change in the city's political scenario and impact the outcome of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
However, Sania Mirza was unable to comment on the matter at the time of reporting.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
