Varsha Gaikwad Mumbai Congress Trailblazer
Image Credit: The Indian Express
Varsha Gaikwad, a prominent Dalit leader and four-term MLA representing Dharavi, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first woman president of the Mumbai Congress. She replaces MLC Bhai Jagtap. Varsha, the daughter of the late Eknath Gaikwad, former Mumbai Congress chief and Lok Sabha MP, entered politics in 2004 and has never lost the SC-reserved constituency. Known for her assertive speeches, she is a prominent Dalit face of the party.
Varsha, a mathematics professor at Siddharth College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, has served in various ministerial roles, including school education minister in the previous MVA government. Despite the party’s limited presence in Mumbai, Varsha has maintained her winning streak from Dharavi, securing victories in both the 2014 and 2019 Assembly polls. She now faces the task of leading the party into the upcoming BMC elections and the next Lok Sabha polls, where the Congress currently lacks representation in Mumbai’s six constituencies.
Gaikwad’s four consecutive terms as an MLA from Dharavi speak volumes about her rapport with the people she represents. Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by the community and her relentless efforts to address them have garnered immense respect and support from her constituents.
Gaikwad’s dedication to uplifting the marginalized sections of society extends beyond her political career. She has been a vocal advocate for education, especially for underprivileged children, aiming to provide them with equal opportunities for a brighter future. Her work in championing social causes has earned her widespread admiration and has solidified her position as a progressive leader.
Re-reported from the story originally published in Indian Express
