Bhatkal: Major changes are expected in the new administration of Majlis Islah-wa-Tanzeem following its triennial elections scheduled to be held on May 12, with more than 50 percent new faces likely to enter the century-old socio-religious and community welfare organisation’s governing body.
The elections have generated considerable enthusiasm among members across Bhatkal, with several wards witnessing intense campaigning and closely fought contests. While Ward No. 2 has emerged as the largest constituency in terms of voters, Ward No. 14 is expected to witness the fiercest electoral battle due to the high number of candidates in the fray, including the organisation’s sitting president.
Ward No. 2, comprising Khalifa Street, Siddique Street, Dongar Palli and Darnata areas, has the highest number of voters at 246. A total of six candidates are contesting from the ward, of whom five will be elected to the executive body.
Ward No. 14, which includes Kargedde, Shifa Colony, Housing Board, Gol Masjid, Horlisal, Maryam Ali Colony, Makkah Colony and Main Road areas, has 232 voters. The ward has drawn maximum attention as 10 candidates are contesting for five seats, making it the most competitive constituency in this election. The presence of incumbent Tanzeem president Inayatullah Shabandari among the contestants has further intensified the contest.
Ward No. 13, comprising Azad Nagar and Jali Road, is the third-largest constituency with 210 voters. Six candidates are contesting from the ward, where five members will be elected.
Election Commissioner Mohiddin Altaf Kharuri said elections are being conducted for 45 members from 16 wards in Bhatkal. The last date for withdrawal of nominations was May 5, following which several candidates withdrew from the race.
As a result, 15 candidates from Wards 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11 and 15 were elected unopposed. Polling will now be held on May 12 in Wards 1, 2, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 16.
Voting will take place from 9 am to 5 pm, after which counting of votes will begin on the same day. The official results will be announced on May 14.
Kharuri appealed to all members to actively participate in the democratic process and strengthen the organisation’s electoral system.
He said the total strength of the Tanzeem administration is 132 members, of whom 10 members from the outgoing administration have already been elected. In the May 12 elections, 45 members will be elected from various wards in Bhatkal, 17 from different parts of India and 40 from overseas units.