Hello Mumbai City Desk
Haji Ibrahim Shaikh Joins NCP, Strengthening Party’s Minority Outreach
Mumbai | Tuesday
Senior Mumbai-based minority leader Haji Ibrahim Shaikh, popularly known as Ibrahim Bhaijaan, has officially joined the Ajit Pawar–led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). A well-known and influential face among the minority community, his induction is being seen as a significant political development in Maharashtra.
Ibrahim Bhaijaan has been associated with the Congress party for over 15 years, during which he played an active role in organisational and community-level politics. He is widely recognised for his strong grassroots network and deep connect with minority communities across Mumbai.
Several senior NCP leaders were present on the occasion to welcome him into the party fold, including MP Sunil Tatkare, former ministers, and other party office-bearers. Party leaders expressed confidence that Ibrahim Bhaijaan’s entry would provide strong support to the NCP among minority voters in Mumbai and across Maharashtra.
Discontent with Congress Leadership
Speaking to Hello Mumbai News, Ibrahim Bhaijaan shared the reasons behind his decision to leave the Congress party after a long association.
“I worked as a senior leader in the Congress party in Maharashtra, but over time I realised that the party has consistently played politics with the emotions of the minority community. Despite being in power from 1999 to 2014, no concrete steps were taken to address minority issues,” he said.
He also raised concerns about the local leadership of the Congress party in Mumbai, alleging neglect of minority interests despite electoral support.
Ibrahim Bhaijaan claimed that minority votes have been crucial in electoral victories, yet the community continues to be ignored. He further alleged that minorities were sidelined during ticket distribution in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.
Confidence in Ajit Pawar’s Leadership
Expressing faith in his new political chapter with the NCP, Ibrahim Bhaijaan praised Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s leadership.
“Ajit Dada Pawar is a leader who believes in decisive action and development. He understands the issues faced by the minority community and takes them seriously. I am confident that under his leadership, the minority community in Maharashtra will progress,” he said.
He also noted that his political journey began with the NCP and that he has previously worked closely with Ajit Pawar, which further strengthened his confidence in the party’s future direction.
Ibrahim Bhaijaan is a Mumbai-based senior politician and a widely respected leader within Maharashtra’s minority community. With decades of experience in public life, he has played a significant role in shaping minority representation and welfare-oriented politics in the state.
He previously served as the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Haj Committee, where he worked extensively for the welfare and facilitation of Haj pilgrims. Before parting ways with the Congress Party, Ibrahim Bhaijaan held the important position of Mumbai Minority President in the Mumbai Congress, reflecting his strong organizational presence and grassroots connect.
In 2008, he contested the Lok Sabha elections, further underlining his active participation in national-level politics. Known for his mass appeal, Ibrahim Bhaijaan enjoys widespread popularity not only in Mumbai but across Maharashtra. He is also well-connected with leaders from across the political spectrum in the state, earning respect for his inclusive approach and collaborative style.
Renowned for his helping nature, Ibrahim Bhaijaan is often at the forefront in supporting the poor and needy. He has consistently raised his voice on issues affecting marginalized sections of society, making social justice and public welfare central to his political work.
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