Harshita Narwekar Asserts Civic Poll Tickets Are Based on Merit, Not Family Connections

BJP candidate Harshita Narwekar claims her family's tickets for the Mumbai civic polls stem from merit and public service, not their relation to Speaker Rahul Narwekar. She highlights their long-standing commitment to the Colaba area and the need for focused attention on local issues.

Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Harshita Narwekar stated on Friday that her and two relatives' candidacies for the January 15 Mumbai civic polls are based on merit and long-standing public service. She clarified that their selection is not due to their relation to Maharashtra assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar. Harshita Narwekar is contesting from ward 225 in Colaba, south Mumbai.

Harshita Narwekar emphasised her family's extensive involvement in public life in the Colaba area for over 40 years. She mentioned that Devendra Fadnavis invited them to join the BJP in 2017, while Rahul Narwekar joined in 2019. "We have been corporators since 2017, and our family has been serving Colaba area for over 40 years. Our work is based on merit and public expectations," she said.

Focus on Civic Issues

Harshita Narwekar highlighted several issues in her ward, including the need for redevelopment due to old and dilapidated buildings. The Fort area, part of her ward, requires urgent attention as it is a heritage precinct. She noted that funds have been allocated for repairs through Rahul Narwekar's efforts.

Addressing local challenges, Harshita Narwekar aims to improve waste management and tackle water shortages by developing new reservoirs. She also plans to address illegal hawkers with the BMC and resolve parking space issues. These initiatives are part of her key priorities if elected for a second term as corporator.

Family's Political Involvement

Three relatives of Rahul Narwekar are contesting from wards 225, 226, and 227. In the previous election, Harshita Narwekar successfully contested from ward 226 but is now fielded from ward 225. Her brother-in-law Makarand Narwekar is running from ward 226, as ward 227 is reserved for women. Another relative is contesting from ward 227.

Harshita Narwekar reiterated that their candidacies are rooted in their family's dedication to public service rather than familial ties to Rahul Narwekar. She expressed confidence in addressing the community's needs effectively through her experience and commitment.

With inputs from PTI