In a groundbreaking move, the Congress party appointed Varsha Gaikwad as the first female president of the Mumbai Congress, replacing Bhai Jagtap. Gaikwad, known for her fiery speeches and representing the economically backward community within the party, has a strong political track record. Having served as a four-term MLA, she made her political debut in 2004 and has remained undefeated in the Dharavi assembly constituency. Gaikwad also held ministerial positions in the Congress-NCP and MVA governments.
The decision to appoint Gaikwad comes ahead of the crucial civic body polls and aims to bring a fresh face to the city’s political landscape. Gaikwad’s historic appointment reflects the Congress party’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality. As she assumes the reins of Mumbai Congress, Gaikwad faces numerous challenges, particularly in leading the party’s performance in upcoming elections, including the Mumbai civic polls, Lok Sabha, and state assembly elections scheduled in the next year.
In response to her appointment, Gaikwad expressed her determination to give her best despite the limited time available for preparation. She emphasized the importance of unity among party leaders and leveraging the people’s belief in the Congress party. Gaikwad cited the recent victory of the Congress over the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Karnataka state assembly polls as evidence of the enduring support for the party.
The 48-year-old leader has an impressive political career, having held several portfolios in previous Congress-NCP governments. She served as the Minister of State for Higher and Technical Education and was later promoted to Cabinet Minister, overseeing the crucial Women and Child Development Department. In the erstwhile MVA government, she held the position of School Education Minister.
Bhai Jagtap, the outgoing president, faced criticism from the Congress leadership for his alleged failure to make the most of the opportunity given to him over two years ago. Jagtap assumed the role after Chandrakant Handore, the initial choice for the party, was defeated in the legislative council polls in June 2022. The Congress leadership was reportedly disappointed by the poor response to the party’s foundation day celebration in Mumbai on December 28, 2022, which played a role in Jagtap’s ouster.
Varsha Gaikwad’s appointment as the first female president of the Mumbai Congress marks a significant milestone in the city’s political history. As she takes on this new role, all eyes will be on her ability to navigate the challenges ahead and lead the party to success in the upcoming elections.
