Confusion, lack of enthusiasm affect Muslim turnout in Maha polls

October 17, 2014

Mumabi, Oct 17: Confusion due to a multiplicity of choices and lack of enthusiasm again resulted in a less than 50% turnout in areas with a concentration of Muslims like Mumbadevi, Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar and Byculla. Despite appeals from community leaders and activists, the response of Muslim voters in Maharashtra remained lukewarm.

"Multiple choices of secular candidates confused Muslim voters. If there was a Congress-NCP alliance, the percentage of voting in Muslim-majority localities could have been higher," said activist Saeed Khan.

In Mumbadevi, where sitting Congress MLA Amin Patel faces a challenge from over a dozen Muslim candidates, including legendary playback singer Mohammed Rafi's son Shahid Mohammed Rafi of the MIM, the percentage of voting was similar as in 2009 (37%). "I can't say why the percentage of voting is chronically low in my area. But I know that I am winning as the potential spoilers didn't get much support," hoped Patel.

In Mankhurd-Shivaji Nagar, the Samajwadi Party's sitting MLA Abu Asim Azmi and Yusuf Abrahni of the Congress appeared to have divided most Muslim votes.

"There is a clear shift of Muslim votes from the Congress in the city to the BJP and MIM," said Salim Alware of the Indian Muslim Intellectual Forum.

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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