With the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections looming, there is no shortage of speculation about which way the Muslim vote will swing and every political party is out to woo Muslim voters.
Here's a look at how different sections of Muslims identify with which party and whom they are likely to vote for:
1.
Muslim population in UP
Muslims constitute 19% of Uttar Pradesh's total population. Of this, 32% are concentrated in urban pockets, while 16% reside in rural areas.
Total: 3.8 crore
Males: 2 crore
Female: 1.8 crore
2.
SP and Congress
Both parties enjoy support among the Sunni, especially the upper castes of Khans, Pathans, Sheikhs, Syeds, Siddiquis. Most prominent Muslim netas in these parties are Sunni. Among the lower caste, Ansaris are perceived to be SP supporters as are the Ghosis (dairy business).
3.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
The Pasmanda community, often referred to as ‘Dalit Muslims’ back the BSP. The term Pasmanda in Persian means “those left behind”, and they find resonance in BSP’s “pro-unprivileged” narrative. Other backward Muslim groups like Kunjras, Sheikh Mansooris and Bhurjis also support the dalit outfit.
4.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
A small section of Shias and Sufis support the saffron outfit. The BJP’s most prominent Muslims - Shahnawaz Husain and Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi - are Shia. PM Modi is routinely pictured with Shia and Sufi religious leaders in an apparent attempt to make the party appear inclusive.
5.
Muslim candidates
• The Samajwadi Party has given tickets to 56 Muslims in the first list of 208 candidates announced so far.
• BSP supremo Mayawati has given tickets to 97 Muslims, expecting that the minority community will turn out in winning numbers for her party this time.
• The BJP has so far announced the names of 304 candidates, with no Muslim nominee among them.
No comments:
Post a Comment