Tejas Navale

Pune: In the run-up to the Pune Lok Sabha elections, Anees Sundke, representing the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM), is gearing up for the political battleground alongside candidates from Mahavikas Aghadi, Mahayuti, and Vanchit. With MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi set to hold a campaign meeting in Pune on May 7, Sundke revealed that the venue for the gathering is yet to be finalised.
 
In an interview with a local newspaper, Sundke outlined MIM's vision beyond the Lok Sabha elections, emphasising their focus on the forthcoming assembly and municipal polls. He expressed the party's aspiration to secure one MLA seat and 30 corporator positions in Pune city, stressing ongoing discussions with Muslim community activists.
 
Highlighting the need for meaningful representation and addressing crucial issues within Muslim society, Sundke lamented the historical neglect of matters such as unemployment and education. He criticised traditional political players like Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), accusing them of exploiting Muslim votes for electoral gains without addressing community concerns.
 
"Muslim votes have been exploited for too long without addressing our community's pressing issues like unemployment and education. It's time for meaningful representation and action," said Anees Sundke, MIM candidate for Pune Lok Sabha constituency.
 
While holding the Congress and NCP accountable for their past failures, Sundke acknowledged the opportunities provided by these parties for his political career growth. Reflecting on his tenure as a corporater and chairman of the standing committee, he emphasised his commitment to serving beyond caste affiliations and cited achievements such as approving a site for the Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple and constructing the Rafi Ahmed Kidwai School in Bhawani Peth.
 
Sundke's statements underscore the complex landscape of political alliances and aspirations ahead of the Pune Lok Sabha elections, highlighting the nuanced dynamics shaping the electoral narrative.