The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) is gearing up to launch its political campaign in Maharashtra, starting Monday, September 29, 2025. This initiative comes ahead of the upcoming local body elections, particularly in Mumbai.
AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi is scheduled for a two-day state tour commencing Monday, September 29, 2025. During this period, he plans to address two public rallies in Kolhapur and Ahilyanagar. Notably, Hindutva organizations in Kolhapur have already voiced their strong opposition to his visit.
Commenting on his Maharashtra visit, Mr. Owaisi stated that with the Supreme Court setting a clear deadline for the elections, the party must commence its campaigning. He confirmed a two-day stay in Maharashtra before returning to Bihar.
Addressing concerns about conducting rallies amidst prevailing rain warnings, Owaisi acknowledged the challenge. He noted that his rallies had already been postponed twice due to adverse weather. Despite this, he affirmed his commitment to visit both locations for public engagements as election dates draw closer.
On Monday, September 29, 2025, Mr. Owaisi will be in Kolhapur, where he is slated to host a public rally in Ichalkaranji. This town, often referred to as the Manchester of Maharashtra for its thriving handloom and powerloom industries, also has Muslims as its second-largest demographic.
The following day, Tuesday, September 30, 2025, will see Owaisi travel to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar for another public rally in Ahilyanagar. AIMIM leader Waris Pathan added that a public event in Pune is also on their agenda after these rallies.
AIMIM Confirms Participation in Local Body Elections
Mr. Pathan confirmed that AIMIM is prepared to contest the upcoming local body elections across Maharashtra. He also revealed ongoing discussions with other parties regarding potential alliances, emphasizing that specific details about partners and locations would be decided by the party leadership. “We are committed to participating in these elections and are currently evaluating our strategic positions,” he stated.
Growing Opposition to Owaisi’s Visit
A number of Hindutva organizations have publicly denounced Mr. Owaisi’s visit, expressing concerns that his addresses could disrupt social harmony during the sacred Navratri festival and with Dasara approaching. They have formally presented a memorandum to the Kolhapur Police, citing fears of potential violence, particularly referencing the ‘I love Muhammad’ campaign.
Yogesh Kumar, Superintendent of Police for Kolhapur, confirmed receipt of the memorandum. He noted that the planned inauguration of the AIMIM office in Kolhapur has been temporarily paused due to “legal issues.” Assuring the public, he added, “Adequate measures are being implemented to ensure law and order is maintained in Kolhapur. There is no immediate cause for concern.”
Niranjan Shinde of the Sakal Hindu Samaj elaborated on their opposition, stating, “We have objected to his tour because his public statements frequently sow discord and tension between communities. Kolhapur is a city known for its peace, where we have co-existed harmoniously for many years. We do not wish for him to visit and potentially incite public sentiment, especially during the sacred Navratri festival, with Dasara just around the corner. We will persist in our opposition to his visit.”
In response to the backlash, AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan asserted, “Their minds are clouded with animosity. Our purpose in visiting is to engage in conversations with the public. We have obtained administrative permission for our events. Our campaigns in Bihar also proceeded without any incidents of violence. On what grounds are these allegations being made? The Constitution guarantees us the right to travel and conduct public meetings freely across the country.”