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Chapter_1

INTRODUCTION

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INTRODUCTION:

The scope of political activities has so much increased that nothing can be

separated from it. From Gram Sabha to Central government, the miracles of

politics are very obvious to note. Even the religious and educational institutions are

not the exceptions to this including the powerloom industry of Malegaon.

Therefore it is essential to take review of earlier political activities in Malegaon.

After the end of Mughal Empire in 1857, the Union Jack was hoisted all

over India. Before 1857, Lieutenant Colonel McDowell captured the fort of

Malegaon from Maharaja Gopal Rao.1 After 1857, most of the weavers came to

Malegaon. These weavers were plundered by the cruelty of the British government.

They were looted and their occupations were banned by the government. The

weavers were forbidden to weave the cloth on “Hathmagh” (Handloom)." This

crushing decision, the sparked off revenge against the British Government. This is

the reason, when Maulana Shaukat Ali and his younger brother Maulana

Mohammed Ali Javhar gave a call for Khilafat Movement in 1921.2 The weavers

of Malegaon joined this movement. To give support to the movement whole

heartedly, Khilafat Committee was established in Malegaon. It was the first time

that the weavers participated in a political activity. In the same period 'Non-Co-

operation movement was launched on under the banner of Indian National

Congress led by Mahatma Gandhi. The participants of Khilafat movement gave

full support to the Non Co-operation Movement. The weavers of Khilafat

Movement established an "Imdad Fund" at Malegaon in order to give financial

help to the movement. Each and every weaver deposited one paisa per saree to the

'Arhatiyas' (Commission Agent). The fund collectors were Hindus while the Fund

depositors were the Muslim weavers. Both the communities took part in the

movement. Some people were in favour of British Government who refused to

deposit their share in the fund. It was the first Public political clash in Malegaon.

Moreover, the Muslim weavers of Malegaon not only participated in

Khilafat movement but also took part in the Quit India Movement,

Non-Cooperation Movement, Boycott of foreign goods with vigour and vitality.

During the Khilafat movement, a police officer Bhaskat Rao was killed by

the freedom fighters of Malegaon. In connection with this murder almost 250 to

300 Muslims and 4 to 5 Hindus were arrested. The court trial went on for 10

months against the accused. The four revolutionaries were hanged to death in Pune

on 1st July 1923. While 10 revolutionaries were imprisoned for the term of three to

seven years. These sacrifices are the glorious tasks performed by Muslim weavers

of Malegaon in the Freedom Struggle against the British government.3

Momin Conference came into existence. The Momin Conference fought for

freedom of India together with the Indian National Congress. The well-known

advocate Mr. Moulvi Shaikh Abdul Aziz Abdul Lateef (M.L.C.) presided over the

Momin Conference on two occasions, first in 1926 at Holiday Park, Calcutta,

Secondly in October 1936 in Haleem High School, Kanpur. 1

ESTABLISHMENT OF MALEGAON MUNICIPALITY :

The Malegaon Municipality came into existence in 1863 A.D. in Mohalla

Qila, before the Fort of Raja Naro Shankar to the southern part of Malegaon.

According to the record of Malegaon Municipal Council, there were 15 members

with the budget of Rs. 1018520 only. With the growth and expansion of

powerlooms in the field of textile industry the budget has gone upto Rs. 24 crores

and the number of members are 70, at present.

Table shows the year-wise members of the Malegaon Municipal Council.4

Table No. 1.1

Year Types of Member No. Tot

al

Heads

1894-95 Public Representative. 9 Deputy Collector

Govt. Nominee 9 18

1905-05 Public Representative 9 Deputy Collector

Govt. Nominee 9 18

1918-19 Public Representative 12 Govt. Nominee

Govt. Nominee 05 Elected by the house

1927-28 Govt. Officer 03 20 Govt. Nominee

Public Representative 16 Elected by the house

Govt. Nominee 03

Govt. Officer 01 20


Lady Seat 01 Elected by the house

Scheduled Caste 01 29


Ladies Seat 03 Elected by the house

Scheduled cast 02 29


Ladies Seat 03 Elected by the house


1961-62 Public Representative 28

Ladies Seat 03


1967-68 Public Representative 40

Ladies Seat 04

Co. Op. 04 48

13th Jan. 1972 Supersede

Administration

60 60 Public representa-

tives elected by the

house

1st Apr. 1984 to 30 Apr. 1985

Supersede

15th May 85 Public Representatives 65 65 Public representa-


house

2 Feb. 88

21 Oct. 94 Public Representatives 75 75 Public representa-


house

To

16 Dec.96

17 Dec. 96 Public Representatives 44

to till Ladies 21

Now Co. Opt. 05 70 Public representa-


house

From the establishment of Malegaon Municipality it was under the control

of District Collector till 1918. The first elected body took charge of the

Municipality in 1918. Abdul Rahim Khan Saheb the first Muslim Weaver, was

elected as president on 1st March 1934. He was from weaver’s community. He was

the founder of "Malegaon Cooperative Society, Malegaon." as well as the pioneer

of Coloured Sarees, Colour Chemicals and Silk.

Next to Khan Saheb Ab. Raheem, Abdul Razzaque Seth, Ab. Majeed came to

power in the Municipality.

He was the great opponent to Khan Saheb Ab. Raheem. He was also from

the weaver’s community.

POLITICAL CLASHES :

In those early days, there were only two parties in the political arena; one

was the Congress, which was represented by Seth Abdul Razzaque, while the other

was Muslim League led by Khan Saheb Ab. Raheem. Hence all the weavers of

Malegaon were divided into these two groups. Persons were more important than

political parties.

It is said that where there is tug of war there is progress. Between these two

rivals, the Malegaon city developed rapidly in all walks of life. Khan Saheb Ab.

Raheem was not only a great politician but also an eminent industrialist. He

represented Malegaon in the legislative assembly for the two successive terms. He

had a lion's share in the progress and development of powerloom industry in

Malegaon. He dreamed to set up a spinning mill for the weavers but, this dream

came true only after his death.

WEAVER PRESIDENT OF MALEGAON MUNICIPALITY :

Since 1918, thirty mine presidents came into power upto the present date.

Some of them became president twice or thrice. Among them, the percentage of

weavers was 64.10. It is because Malegaon is known for weavers city or

powerloom industry. 50% population is directly or indirectly related to the

powerloom industry. Hence one can say that the growth of Malegaon Municipality

or the political activities came into being due to the powerloom industry.5

Elected presidents of Malegaon Council and their period of work. Table

showing the year-wise Presidents and Weaver Presidents and their term of Office.

Table No. 1.2

S.No. Name From To

1 Shri R.G. Kashiker 01-04-1918 20-03-1934

2 Shri M.B. Hakeem 31-03-1934 15-10-1938

3 Shri Ab.Razzaque Haji Ab.Majid • 16-10-1938 31-03-1942

4 Shri Ab.Razzaque Haji Ab.Majid 01-10-1942 03-12-1950

5 Mangaldas Tarachand Bhausar • 13-12-1950 04-01-1952

6 M. Ishaque Haji Faizulla • 05-01-1952 04-01-1953

7 Dr. Md. Saleem Shaikh • 05-01-1953 14-10-1953

8 M. Ishaque Haji Faizulla • 15-10-1953 17-05-1954

9 Haroon Ah. Ansari • 18-05-1954 17-05-1955

10 Dr. Md. Saleem Shaikh 18-05-1955 17-05-1956

11 M. Abbas Ali Kasam Ali Qazi 18-05-1957 17-09-1957

12 Haroon Ah. Ansari • 18-05-1957 11-06-1958

13 Vitthal Ganpat Kale 12-05-1958 11-06-1959


15 Raghunandan Vishnu Patil 13-06-1960 05-09-1961

16 Nihal Ah. Moulvi Md. Usman • 06-09-1961 17-06-1962

17 Ab. Salam Ab. Razaque v 18-06-1962 17-06-1963

18 Madhav Hari Vadge 18-06-1963 17-06-1964


20 Dr. Naval Roy Shah 19-06-1965 10-03-1966

17-3-1966 Dissolved

21 Dr. Khaleel Ah. Ansari • 01-08-1967 31-10-1967

22 Dr. Khaleel Ah. Ansari 22-11-1967 07-08-1968

23 Haji Zainulabedeen Ab. Majeed • 19-08-1968 06-02-1969

24 Shabbir Ah. Haji Gulam Rasool • 26-02-1969 07-03-1970

25 Vitthal Ganpat Kale 30-03-1970 07-04-1971

26 Ab. Aziz Haji Kallu • 28-04-1971 31-07-1971

27 M. Rafeeque Haji Hamidulla • 13-08-1971 21-09-1971

28 M. Mustafa Haji Gulam Rasool• 15-10-1971 13-12-1971

29 Tukaram Gopal Patil 28-12-1971 12-01-1972

Administrator 13-01-1972 04-06-1978

30 Shabbir Ah. Haji Gulam Rasool • 05-06-1978 31-03-1987

Administrator 01-04-1984 30-04-1985

31 Shabbir Ah. Haji Gularn Rasool • 15-05-1985 12-02-1988

32 Patil Deepak Shriram 06-03-1988 16-12-1991

33 Younus Haji Shaikh Isa 17-02-1991 22-07-1994

34 Administrator 22-07-1994 21-10-1994

35 Shaikh Rasheed Shaikh Shafi 21-10-1994 16-12-1996

36 Sajeda Nihal Ahmed 17-12-1996 16-12-1997

37 Ghodke Sakharam Bhika 17-12-1997 16-12-1998

48 Md. Yaqoob Ab. Sattar • 17-12-1998 to this date

• In the table indicates the presidents from the weaver community.6

The

political activities of Malegaon are always around the powerloom industry. Each

election, right from Municipal Council to Parliament had issue of powerloom at

central place.

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES AFTER 1950 ONWARDS :

After the independence, Seth Abdul Razzaque goined strength in the politics

of Malegaon. Not only the municipal politics but also the problems of Malegaon

were solved at the residence of Seth Abdul Razzaque. In those days, political

figures were more important than the political parties. Ultimately, the powerloom

owners as well as labourers got divided into two groups. One group was under the

leadership of Seth Abdul Razzaque (Congress Party) while the other was under the

leadership of Khan Saheb Abdul Raheem (Muslim League),

After 1950, the Socialist Party and Communist Party got their fort-hold on

Malegaon. Some weavers like Haroon Ahmed Ansari, Nihal Ahmed, Dr. Abdul

Salam, Md. Basheer, Jawaher, and Abdul Jabbar Khusru were the eminent leaders

of the Socialist Party. While Comrade Abdul Majeed Sindhu, Nazeer Pahelwan,

Ab. Razzaque, Shafaque Ansari, Shaukat Aziz, Haroon B.A., Haroon Md. Husain

were leading the Communist Party. They all belonged to the weaver community.

These two parties endeavoured to protect the interests of working class.

Therefore, the majority of the labourer class was divided into these two parties.

Over a period time the Muslim League and Communist party lost their prominence

among the people. Their political influence vanished. It is because Muslim League

was blamed as communal and pro-pakistani, while Communist Party was far from

being religious. In Malegaon majority of the weavers were Muslims, so they did

not favour it. From 1950 to 1960, the Municipality was in the hands of Socialist

Party.

By observing the above table of the list of the Presidents of Malegaon

Municipal Council, we find that, except Md. Ishaque Haji Faizulla (Azad Ansari)

all the Presidents were from the Socialist Party. During this period, there was a

rapid and a fast development and progress of Malegaon.

CONSTRUCTIVE WORK IN MALEGAON :

For the welfare and benefits of the weavers of Malegaon the Socialist Party

had done a number of constructive works e.g. in 1955, the first Water Tank was

constructed in front of the A.T.T. High School, with the capacity to provide water

to 60,000 people.

Saleem Nagar and Nihal Nagar were developed for the Labour class.

1960 to 1970 :

During this decade also power was in the hands of of Socialist Party. On 2nd

Sept. 1963, first Communal Riot broke out in Malegaon. Six persons were killed in

the police firing, and curfew was imposed for a week.

Many people were arrested. This riot was a shocking experience for the

weavers of Malegaon. The industrial life came to stand still for a week due to

curfew. The riot changed the dimension of politics, industry and business. A rift

arose between Hindu Yarn merchants and Saree Commission agents and Muslim

powerloom owners.

In 1961-62 Thokar Nagar (at present Azad Nagar) was developed &

dwellers were allotted the land to become land owners. It was the period of Shri

Nihal Ahmed as a President of Municipality.

In 1962, Shri Nihal Ahmed was elected as a Member of Legislative

Assembly of Maharashtra. He was known as the leader of poor labourers and

represented them in the Assembly.

Satana Road Hospital was founded by Dr. Saleem Shaikh as, N.N. Wadia

Civil Hospital was not enough to provide the health facilities to the working class

and poor people of Malegaon.7

ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS :

With the growth of powerloom industry, the population increased day by

day. New, settlements like Saleem Nagar, Azad Nagar and others hutments and

slum areas came into existence. It was a fully rising age of coloured sarees. The

growth and expansion of powerloom industry and the class struggle in Malegaon

was like the one created in England during the ‘Industrial Revolution.’ On one

hand there was the Labour class which was led by Shri Nihal Ahmed on the other

hand were the powerloom owners (i.e. industrialists). This class struggle gave birth

to labour unions like Mill Mazdoor Sabha under the banner of Socialist Party,

ITUC and INTUC etc. Among them, the Mill Mazdoor Sabha was the most

powerful. In this political fray, there was no rival or opponent to Nihal Ahmed.

In 1967, the assembly election took place and Shri Nihal Ahmed was elected with

the support of not only the Congress Party but also by the industrialist, capitalist,

and powerloom owners.

On 9th

Sept. 1969, Malegaon was badly affected by the flood. Electricity,

road, transportation, communication and powerloom Industry were badly damaged.

Relief work was going on for months, labour class and poor people suffered a lot.

On this occasion the pious wealthy came forward and generously helped the

sufferers.

PAKISTAN WAR :

In 1965, Pakistan attacked India. The Central Government associated

imposed D.I.R. in the country. Most of the weavers who were with the Muslim

League were arrested by the Govt. under D.I.R. (Defense of India Rule) including

Ab. Raheem Khan Saheb and Dr. Peer Md. Rahmani.8

1970 to 1980 :

This decade is very remarkable with regard to the political as well as the

industrial life of Malegaon. As it is said in the preceding lines there was no

opponent in the political field who could defeat Shri Nihal Ahmad. The Congress

Party was in search of such a candidate who could at least compete with him.

This time Shrimati Ayesha Hakeem (Relative of Khan Saheb Ab. Raheem)

who was the head mistress of Malegaon High School, Malegaon was given-the

ticket as a Congress Party candidate against' Nihal Ahmad, Ayesha Hakeem was

from a civilised and educated family. So she got the support of educated

community. Being a woman, she got the support of all the women and past

students of the school. More over all the powerloom owners and Congress party

were backing her, so she defeated Shri Nihal Ahmed by a considerable margin in

1972 Assembly Election. It was not only the first defeat in the political career of

Shri Nihal Ahmad but also the defeat of labour class. This election affected the

relationship between powerloom owners and workers.

FAMINE OF 1972 AND LABOUR MOVEMENT :

In 1972 due to scarcity of rains, the crops were ruined. The farmers had to

sell even their bullocks to feed their children. In Malegaon working hours were

reduced, factories were locked down. Therefore, workers became jobless, and they

had to face starvation. At various places, relief camps were opened where the

needy and poor people or labourers were supplied bread and curry at a nominal

rate. At this occasion, the generous and kind hearted powerloom owners too,

voluntarily helped the needy.

In this critical situation Shri Nihal Ahmed who has been defeated in the

election, got a golden chance and started labor movement under the banner of

"Mill Mazdoor Sabha." In 1972, this movement was in full swing. Majority of the

labourers supported him Morcha, Strike, processions, meetings were held for

protectingrights of labourers such as the daily wages, Hakraza, minimum wages,

holiday wages, maternity leave for women workers, service card etc.

Through this change, Nihal Ahmed was seeking revenge of his election

defeat against the powerloom owners and the rich people. It is said that this labour

movement was unique in itself. This movement also brought many changes in the

industrial field of Malegaon.

EMERGENCY :

Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India enforced emergency in the

country which created discipline in all walks of life and stability in prices in

Malegaon too. The fluctuations of prices, hoarding by big businessmen and the, so

called shortage of essential commodities ended. The Powerloom industry also got

stability and strength. The reactions to emergency caused political uproar.

1980-1990 :

According to the amendments in the municipalities act direct election was

held in 1980 Shabbir Ahmad, Haji Gulam Rasool was elected as a President

against Dr. Naval Roy Shah. Both were related to the powerloom industry. Shabbir

Ahmed was a kind hearted man of action. He had done many things in Malegaon

for the progress and welfare of the weavers.

First of all he constructed the "Bunkar Baazar" on Quidwai Road in 1980. Though

the possessions of shops are in the hands of weavers, the Bunkers do not get any

benefit out of it.

He laid the foundation of spinning mill at Daregaon and started Janata

Cooperative Bank for the Bunker or weavers. Recently, on 9th March 1999, the

Bank celebrated its Silver Jubilee Function. (In the following chapter it shall be

discussed in detail.)

1990-1998 :

By observing the table (pp41-42), it becomes clear that from 1978 to 1988

was the period of Shabbir Ahmed Haji Gulam Rasool as a President in Malegaon

Municipal Council.

Later, Mohd. Younus Haji Isa, then Shaikh Rasheed, Ghodke Sakharam

became the Presidents till 1998. They were all from Congress Party.

On 17th

Dec.1998, Md. Yaqoob Ahmad Sattar came in power as a President.

He was also from the weaver community and a big industrialist. He was not only

the President but also the Chairman of School Board from 1992 to 1993.

A VIEW OF LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION :

While considering the local politics in respect of Malegaon Municipal

Council, it is necessary to go through the Assembly and Parliamentary

representation.

In the very first election of legislative assembly of Malegaon Constituency

(1952), after the Independence, Md. Sabir Abdul Sattar of Congress Party defeated

Mr. Haroon Ahmed Ansari of Praja Socialist party. By winning the election Mohd.

Sabir Abdul Sattar got the honour of first M.L.A. of Malegaon. However, the

members of Legislative Council (M.L.C.) were also elected by the public voters

before independence. Mr. Khan Saheb Abdul Raheem and Gulab Miyan both had

the honour of M.L.C. twice. Gulab Miyan was M.L.C. in 1923 and 1932 while

Khan Saheb was M.L.C. in 1937 and 1942. Anyway Sabir Abdul Sattar

represented Malegaon from 1952 to 1957.9

ELECTION OF 1957 :

In the second election of the Assembly in 1957, Mr. Haroon Ahmed Ansari

of Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti defeated the candidate of Congress Party Mr.

Sabir Abdul Sattar. It was a turning point in the history of politics in Malegaon.

The seat of Malegaon had gone to the opposition party. The Congress Party for

sometime lost its clout in the politics of Malegaon. It appeared that the

development of Malegaon was always neglected by the Government of

Maharashtra. Haroon Ahmed Ansari could not make successful in his efforts

during the five years from 1957 to 1962.

IIIRD

ELECTION 1962 :

In the Assembly election of 1962, again Haroon Ahmed Ansari was elected

as M.L.A. from Malegaon on the ticket of Congress Party defeating Nihal Ahmed.

He has a lion’s share in the foundation of J.A.T. Girls High School. Later on

started J.A.T. Women’s College of Arts, Science and Commerce. The Night High

School and the D. Ed. College are also run under the management of J.A.T. The

foundation of Malegaon Co-operative Spinning Mill in Malegaon was of a great

importance for the progress and development of the powerloom industry in order

to supply the yarn at cheaper rate to the weavers of Malegaon. Till this time, the

weavers of Malegaon could not get the yarn from their own mill. Similarly, in the

establishment of Janata Cooperative Bank of Malegaon, Haroon Ahmed Ansari

contributed a lot. As a political leader, he was very successful in his efforts. His

works are memorable as well as praise worthy.

ELECTION OF 1967 :

Mr. Haroon Ahmed Ansari was representative in the Assembly from 1957

to 1967. After his resignation from Socialist Party the reins of the party came in the

hands of Nihal Ahmed. In the election of 1967 for Legislative Assembly, the

contest was between Haroon Ahmed Ansari and Nihal Ahmed. Haroon Ahmed

Ansari was defeated by Nihal Ahmed. Again the representation had gone to the

opposition party. Being in opposition, Shri Nihal Ahmed could not gain any

remarkable success in his efforts. But he got popularity in the public on account of

powerloom industry and its related matters such as labour problem, ban on

coloured sarees, the textile policies of the government, non availability of yarn and

electricity problems. For the labour problems, "Mill Mazdoor Sabha," and for the

hut dwellers problems, "Jhopar Patti Basayat Sabha" were established by him. He

is considered as the "Leaders of Poor." He has been always active in the politics of

Malegaon along with the social, political and industrial activities.

ELECTION OF 1972 :

From 1967 to 1972 was the worse period for the Congress Party as well as

for the Malegaon powerloom industry. It was the peak period for the coloured

sarees of Malegaon. But everyday there was a fear of ban on coloured sarees. Since

1957 each and every election was contested on the grounds of coloured saree in

Malegaon. As usual, during this time, also, coloured saree was the main point of

election manifesto published by Janata Party. Poor people supported Nihal Ahmad

due to the ban of coloured sarees by the Congress government. In fact, their

support was not in favour of Nihal Ahmed but against the Congress Party. In other

words it can be said that it was a negative support.

In spite of these facts, there was no powerful candidate in Malegaon in the

Congress Party who could at least contest against Nihal Ahmed. After a great

search Miss Ayesha Hakeem was made to agree for the election. Taking into

consideration her popularity as a Head-Mistress of a renowned High School, a

lady, her education, her family-background, relation to Khan Saheb Ab. Raheem

former M.L.A. and her social work etc., she was nominated as a candidate from

Congress Party in 1972. However, there was internal tug-of-war between Shabbir

Ahmed and Ayesha Hakeem in the Congress Party for getting the ticket. Being an

educated lady, with the consent of Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Miss Ayesha Hakeem was

confirmed as Congress candidate.

Now, the issue of election was changed into educated and uneducated, and

the issue of coloured saree and powerloom industry got only the secondary

importance. As a result, Miss Ayesha Hakeem defeated Nihal Ahmed of Janata

party.

During her term as a M.L.A. from 1972 to 1977, she made several efforts for

the progress and development of Malegaon. The S.T. Bus Stand was transferred

from city police station to old Agra Road where all the necessary facilities were

provided to the passengers. A modern Filter Plant was set up in front of the

Electric Power House at Old Agra Road. The license of Spinning Mill and the

permission for Janata Cooperative Bank were also granted due to her efforts. She,

tried her best to remove the restriction imposed upon coloured saree. Miss Ayesha

Hakeem is always remembered not only for defeating Shri Nihal Ahmed but also

for her work.

ELECTION OF 1978 :

In 1977, many refugees from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh came to India

on account of attack of Pakistan on Bangladesh. The Indian government had to

provide them protection, bread and butter and all the facilities. It was an

emergency period. So the election was taken in 1978. Again the election was

contested between Miss Ayesha Hakeem and Shri Nihal Ahmed. Though Ayesha

Hakeem had done many works for Malegaon, she lost the election to Nihal Ahmed.

The following table gives the clear picture of Assembly election of 1978. 10

Table No. 1.3

No. Name of the Candidate Votes

1 Gauli Bheema Daga Independent 5936

2. Gazi Naseem Ahmad Khan Independent 19192

3. Nihal Ahmad Moulvi Md. Usman Janata Party 47237

4. Magre Vitthal Dharma Independent 3431

5. Ayesha Chirag Hakeem Congress (I) 6288

Behind the defeat of Ayesha Hakeem, the main reason was emergency

imposed by Mrs. Indira Gandhi in 1975. During the emergency, people were

harassed by the Police. Hence the people were completely against Mrs. Indira

Gandhi and the tax collected for Bangladesh Refugees which the citizens of India

had to bear for no reason.

One important thing is that in Malegaon any election is not contested on the

party or political basis or no issue is given importance except only the personality.

Emergency, refugee taxes, coloured saree, dearness etc. were the main issues of the

election. In spite of this, Malegaon Congress Party was divided into two groups. It

was due to the internal groupings in the Congress Party by which Nihal Ahmed got

advantage and an opportunity. It was a Janata Wave, not only in Malegaon, but all

over India. As a result the Congress Party was thrown out of power in the Centre

and Janata party formed the Government. Similarly, the Janata party came in

power in Maharashtra also. Shri Nihal Ahmed was appointed as a minister for

technical education and employment. As a minister he had not done any

remarkable work for the powerloom industry in Malegaon. Only he tried his best to

provide the yarn on cheaper rates. For this purpose, a federation of cooperative

societies was set up and quota was allotted to each society according to the number

of powerlooms. But the scheme could not succeed due to unstable government in

the State as well as at the centre Due to the crisis in politics, the government of

Janata Party had to resign and fresh election was declared.

ELECTION OF 1980 :

The election of Maharashtra Assembly was held with Parliament election in

1980. Nihal Ahmed was the candidate of Janata Party. This time a new candidate

Mr. Shabbir Ahmed Haji Gulam Rasool was nominated by Congress Party. As a

President of Malegaon Municipal Council 1969-1978, 1985), he was popular

among the people and had the experience in politics. All the Congress members

and workers united to support Shabbir Ahmed. The powerloom owners were in

support of Shabbir Ahmed, while the labour community and hut dwellers and poor

people were supporting Nihal Ahmed. The election was as usual, contested on the

issue of coloured saree and the powerloom industry of Malegaon. The Congress

Party criticised the clashes in Janata Party that could not complete the term of five

years of the government. They were not able to rule the country. There was a tough

fight between the two. It was thrilling and full of suspense. It was very difficult to

guess, who would win the election. Shabbir Ahmed was defeated by a little margin

of 1848 votes.

The following detail shows the analysis of voting and the position. 11

Table No. 1.4


1 Nihal Ahmad Moulvi Md. Usman Janata 42604

Shabbir Ahmad Haji Gulam Rasool Congress 40756

3. Nihal Ahmed Usman Gani Independent 274

4. Babu Mumtaz Ahmad Abdul Haque Independent 257

In Maharashtra, the Congress Party came into power again and Nihal Ahmed

had to sit in opposition. Again the history was repeated & the problems remained

unsolved. Malegaon was neglected by the government. During the period

(1980-1985) Janata Party was divided into two groups i.e. Janata party and Janata

Dal. Nihal Ahmed remained with the Janata Dal.

During this period, the most dastardly incident took place in which the Prime

Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi was shot dead by her security guard. Throughout

India a horrible riot broke out. In Malegaon, curfew was imposed. On the horizon

of politics a new star arose in the form of Mr. Rajiv Gandhi. He was appointed as

the next P.M. of India. For an Assembly member of Malegaon, it was also a dark

period.

ELECTION OF 1985 :

The election of Maharashtra was going to be held with the parliamentary

election in 1985. It was the era of Rajiv Gandhi's young leadership. There was a

wave of Rajiv all over India due to the assassination of Mrs. Indira Gandhi. The

sympathy of all the people was with Rajiv Gandhi. Malegaon and Maharashtra

were not the exception to this.

One after another governments came in and went out but the powerloom

industry remained as it was. The powerloom industry was dragging itself in

Malegaon. In this situation 'a new election was declared.

As usual Nihal Ahmed was nominated the candidate of Janata Dal while

Shabbir Ahmed Haji Gulam Rasool was the Congress (I) candidate. The story of

the election of 1980 was repeated in 1985. Again there was a great struggle

between the two. This time people expected that Shabbir Ahmed would certainly

defeat Nihal Ahmed because of the Rajiv wave. The main issue of election was the

disability of Nihal Ahmed as an M.L.A. He did nothing for the progress and

development of Malegaon. But he made the issue of crisis of powerloom industry

labour problems, dearness of yarn and ban on coloured sarees.

One thing is noticeable, in Malegaon the voters do not consider the issues

and policies of the party. The elections are contested on the basis of personalities.

The Congress Party fought the election with all its might but it lost this election by

3000 votes.

The following table gives the clear picture of votings of 1985 Assembly

election. 12

Table No. 1.5


1.

2.

3.

4.

5

6.

7.

Nihal Ahmed

Haji Shabbir Ahmed

Yogi Baba Anand

Farqleet Abdul Khalique

Magre Vitthal Dharma

Laeeque Ahmad Md. Shamim

Mobeen Khan Mardan Khan

Janata Dal

Congress (I)

Independent

Independent

Independent

Independent

Independent

48254

45016

5709

3313

788

224

192

The result showed that the voters of Malegaon are not led by any wave or

policy. However, on account of the sympathy shown to Rajiv Gandhi, the Congress

Party got more than 2/3 majority. Total 450 members were elected on Congress

ticket but the situation of Malegaon was a different one. In 1985 the new Textile

policy was announced which was completely favouring the mill sector and

handloom sector. Several facilities were provided to the handloom owners but the

powerloom sector was neglected. The period from 1985 to 1990, was also, not

good for the Malegaon powerloom industry. The M.L.A. could do nothing for the

city and powerloom industry.

ELECTION OF 1990 :

Mr. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated at Chennai in 1991 by LTTE militant.

Mr. Narsimha Rao was appointed as P.M.

In Maharashtra in 1990, the Assembly election was declared. Again Nihal

Ahmed was the candidate of Janata Dal against Shabbir Ahmed of Congress (I).

This time there were 21 candidates in the fray. But the main contest was between

Janata Dal and Congress. Due to internal clashes in Congress (I) Nihal Ahmed

easily defeated the Congress (I) candidate by a margin of 32000 votes. This win of

Nihal Ahmed proved that, nobody could defeat him in election in Malegaon

constituency. Moreover it proved his political strength and power in Malegaon.

The following table shows the actual position of voting 13

Table No. 1.6

No. Name of the Candidate Party Votes

1 Nihal Ahmed Janata Dal 67944

2. Haji Shabbir Ahmed Congress (I) 35668

3. Pralhad Sharma B. J. P. 26209

4. Shahnawaz Abdul Salam Independent 1054

5. Md. Ayyub Independent 464

6. Shaikh Kamaluddin Independent 373

7. Gazi Amanullah Janata Party 367

This time the B.J.P. also announced their candidature. Its candidate bagged

all the 26000 Hindu votes. This election was contested on the basis of

communalism. That is the reason Nihal Ahmed defeated his nearest and traditional

rival Haji Shabbir Ahmed 'by the remarkable margin of 32000 votes. It was his

biggest victory in the politics of Malegaon.

ELECTION OF 1995:

During the period from 1990 to 1995, the Babri Masjid was

demolished at Ayodhya in U.P. under the government of Kalyan Singh of B.J.P,

while in the centre, the Congress Party was in power. Really it was shocking

incident for the Indian Muslims. This grave incident took place on 6th Dec. 1992.

It is the darkest day in the history of India. The incident turned the mind of all

Muslims away from Congress and B.J.P. The Congress Party was not able to face

the people.

On the other hand, in 1991, America, Great Britain and France attacked Iraq.

Iraq is a Muslim country. Therefore not only the Muslims of Malegaon but all the

Muslims in the world hated America and its allies. In such circumstances, the

Assembly elections of 1995 took place. This time the situation was different.

Shabbir Ahmed suffered from throat cancer so he was not able to contest. In

addition to it he realised that he can not defeat Nihal Ahmed Internal clashes of

Congress Party, divided it into groups. One group was led by Younus Isa, and the

other was led by Shaikh Rasheed. Nihal Ahmed was a candidate of Janata Dal as

usual, while Younus Isa and Shaikh Rasheed were demanding the ticket from the

Congress Party. At least, Younus Isa was nominated as the candidate by the

Congress Party. Being disappointed, Shaikh Rasheed resigned from the Congress

Party and declared himself as an independent candidate. Against Nihal Ahmed

there were three rivals i.e. Younus Isa from Congress Party, Shaikh Rasheed as an

independent candidate while Pralhad Sharma was of B.J.P. Nihal Ahmed, on the

one hand, got the advantages from the division in the Congress. The Muslim voters

from Malegaon were against the Congress Party due to the demolition of Babri

Masjid. As a result, the opposition votes were divided but Nihal Ahmed got his

fixed number of votes and won the election easily by a margin of nearly 31000

votes.

The following table shows the actual votes of the candidates. 14

Table No. 1.7


1. Nihal Ahmed Janata Dal 65621

2. Shaikh Younus Shaikh Isa Congress 20948

3. Shaikh Rasheed Shaikh Safi Independent 34418

4. Pralhad Sharma B. J. P. 23437

5. Abdul Khalique Khateeb B.S.P. 1114

6. Md. Ismail Maha Sangh 377

It was the fifth victory of Nihal Ahmed in succession and sixth in all.

Through this election, Younus Isa and Shaikh Rasheed realized their political

position and popularity in the public of Malegaon. The election proved that the

power and political position of Shaikh Rasheed is more solid than that of Younus

Isa.

This election was contested solely on the basis of demolition of Babri

Masjid though it was not propagated by Janata Dal openly due to the Code of

Conduct. This was one more victory for Nihal Ahmed in Malegaon. Thus, he

represented the Malegaon in Assembly for 28 years among which for successive

23 years.

ELECTION OF 1999 :

In 1995, the Shiv Sena and B.J.P. combined and formed the government in

Maharashtra. It was the first government of two aligned parties. Though the

government has not completed its term of five years. It was going to be completed

in the Feb. 2000. To save time, money and energy the Assembly election of

Maharashtra was taken along with the parliamentary elections.

This time the situation of election was quite different. At the national level,

most of the senior leaders were disappointed with the leadership of Narsimha Rao.

Due to political pressure over Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, she entered into the politics of

India

With the insertion into Indian politics of Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, she was

appointed as a president of AICC. The incident crated dilemma not only in the

AICC but also among the opposition parties such as B.J.P., Shiv Sena, and other

local parties. Mrs. Sonia Gandhi being related to Italian origin. P.A.

Sangma-former speaker of Lok Sabha, Tarique Anwar-a Spokesman of Congress

and strongest leader and dreaming to be the Prime Minister from Maharashtra, Mr.

Sharad Pawar strongly opposed the leadership of Sonia Gandhi. As a result, the

three persons resigned' from Congress Party and established a new party named as

the Nationalist Congress Party. Sharad Pawar was appointed as the president of the

party. The partition of Congress not only affected the politics of Maharashtra but

also of Malegaon.

In this situation, Shri Nihal Ahmed was the candidate of Janata Dal, while

the defeated candidate in the previous election Shaikh Rasheed Shaikh Shafi was

the candidate from Congress (I). There was no other political issue from Congress

except the old leadership of Nihal Ahmed and his passive role for the last 30 years.

In a very mysterious way "Dakhni-Momin" spirit was propagated in the public by

the Congress Party. In addition to it, an unknown candidate from B.J.P. was

nominated. It is said that the Congress candidate made a secret contract with Shiv

Sena and B.J.P, in order to defeat Shri Nihal Ahmed. On the other hand there was

no issue with Janata Dal. Most of the workers, local leaders Municipal Councilors

and friends of Nihal Ahmed were with the Congress candidate who were opposing

Nihal Ahmad severely as well as actively. As a result, Nihal Ahmed was defeated

by a huge margin of more than 26000 votes. It was the greatest margin of victory

registered by any candidate.

The following table shows the analysis of voting in the Assembly election

1999. 15

Table No. 1.8


1 . Govind Kanhiya Taparia B. J. P. 9082

2. Nihal Ahmed Janata Dal 48254

3. Shaikh Rasheed Congress 74433

4. Shakeel Ahmed A. B. S. 2665

5. Hameed Khan , Suraksham 269

By observing the votes of the candidates it is surprising that the B.J.P.

candidate got lesse votes than all of its previous candidates. It means the Shiv Sena

and B.J.P. or in other words, the communal Hindu votes were bagged by the

Congress candidate, and it was proved that they had conspired against Nihal

Ahmed to defeat him. The people of Malegaon said that the voters and political

social, personalities took away leadership from Nihal Ahmed. It was really a

surprising result for the great politician. In Maharashtra It was an unbelievable

result. It is a historical victory for Shaikh Rasheed in the politics of Malegaon.

The following, table shows the elected M.L.A. from Malegaon and defeated

candidates since 1952 in the Maharashtra. 10

Table No. 1.9

Year Elected M.L.A. Defeated Candidates

1952 Sabir Abdul Sattar Haroon Ahmad Ansari (PSP)

AICC Comrade Raja Ram Nikam

(Communist Party)

Tukaram Patil (Jan Sangh)

1957 Haroon Ahmad Ansari Md. Sabir Abdul Sattar (AICC)

(Samyukt Maharashtra Samiti)

1962 Haroon Ah. Ansari Nihal Ah. (P.S.P)

(AICC) Shaukat Aziz (Communist)

1967 Nihal Ahmed Haroon Ahmad Ansari (AICC)

(P. S. P.) Abbas Ali Qazi (Communist)

Sarfraz Afsar (Independent)

1972 Ayesha Hakeem (AICC) Nihal Ahmed (P.S.P)

Haroon B.A. (Communist)

1978 Nihal Ahmed (Janata Party) Ayesha Hakeem (Congress 1)

Ahmed Naseem

(Muslim League)

Bheema Gauli (Indep.)

Vitthal Magre (Indep.)

1980

1985

Nihal Ahmed (Janata party)

Nihal Ahmed (Janata party)

Shabbir Ahmad

(Congress(I))Mubeen Khan Gazi

Indep.)Babu Mumtaz (Indep.)

Nihal Ah. (Indep.)

Shabbir Ahmad (Congress (I))

Dr. Aqueel,Ah. (Indep.)

Mubeen Khan Gazi (Indep.)

Farqleet Abdul Khalique(Indep)

Magre Vitthal Dharma (Indep)

Hakeem Kaleem (Indep)

Mahmood Abdul Gaffar (Indep)

Yogi Baba (Indep)

Laeeque Ahmed (Indep)

1990

1995

1999

Nihal Ahmed (Janata Dal)


Shaikh Rasheed (Congress I)

Sonaj Arun Mahadev (Indep)

Shabbir Seth (Congress (I))

Pralhad Sharma (B.J.P.)

Shaikh Rasheed (Indep.)

Younus Isa (Congress (I))

Pralhad Sharma (B.J.P.)


Govind Tapadia (B.J.P.)

Shakeel Ahmed (A.B.S.)

Table shows the voting position of the elected as well as defeated

candidates in Malegaon in the Maharashtra Assembly elections.

Table No. 1.10

Year Elected MLA Votes Defeated Party Votes

1972 Ayesha Hakem 2300

0 Nihal Ahmad Janata 16000

(Cong. I)

1978 Nihal Ahmad (JP) 4723

7 Abdul Naseem Mushawarat 19192


4 Shabbir Seth Cong. (1) 40756






1 Sk. Rasheed Indep. 34418

1999 Sk. Rasheed

(Congress I)

7443

3 Nihal Ahmad J. D. 48254

Table shows the members of legislative assembly (M.L.A.) of Maharashtra

State (Malegaon Constituency). 17

Table No. 1.11

On 1st

May 1960, on the basis of Marathi language, the state of Maharashtra

came into existence.

Table shows the representation form Malegaon Constituency after 1960. 18

Table No. 1.12

S.No. Name of the M.L.A. Duration

1 Md. Sabir Abdul Sattar 1952-1957

2. Md. Haroon Ahmed Ansari 1957-1962

3. Md. Haroon Ahmed Ansari 1962-1967

4. Nihal Ahmed Moulvi Md. Usman 1967-1972

5.

6.

Shrimati Ayesha Hakeem

Nihal Ahmed Moulvi Md. Usman

1972-1977

1977-1981


1 Gulab Miyan Dada Miyan Wasif 1923-1928

2. Khan Saheb Abdul Raheem 1937-1942

3. Khan Saheb Abdul Raheem 1946-1952

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.





Shaikh Rasheed Shaikh Safi

1981-1986

1986-1986

1991-1996

1996-1999

1 999-this date

Table shows the representation of Malegaon Constituency in Legislative

Council. 19

Table No. 1.13


1 . Gulab Miyan Dada Miyan Wasif 1923-1928

2. Gulab Miyan Dada Miyan Wasif 1928-1933

3. Abdul Aziz Haji Wakeel 1930-1935

4. Abdul Aziz Haji Wakeel 1937-1945

5. Shabbir Ahmad Haji Gulam Rasool 1991-1996

Of course, all the members of the legislative assembly and council are from

weaver community. One remarkable thing is that, Nihal Ahmed Moulavi Md.

Usman represented in the assembly continuously since 1977. He represented not

only the powerloom industry but the labourers and -the powerloom workers

community.

As far as the Parliament is concerned, the Constituency of Malegaon is

reserved for Scheduled Trible i.e. Adivasi, since 1951. There is no question to

represent the weaver community in the Parliament. It is neglected that the majority

of voters are in Malegaon as compared to the villages which are included in the

Malegaon Constituency.

REFERENCE

1. Dr. Momin Mohiyuddin

Momin Ansari Bradri Ki Tarekh,

Momin Jamatkhana

363, Samadnagar, Bhiwandi, Thane

1994, P. 782.

2. V. V. Sharma History of the Indian Freedom Movement 1857-1957 P 132.

3. Nasik Dist. Gazetteers

Government of Maharashtra 1962.

4. eecord of Malegaon Municipal Council,

Malegaon.

5. Ibid.

6. Ibid.

7. Ibid.

8. Nasik Dist. Gazetteers

Government Publication of Maharashtra

1975, Page No. 165

9. Dr. Ashok V. Jain

Political Process in Maharashtra,

Sheth Publishers Pvt. Ltd. Mumbai

1999, Page No. 36.

10. Ibid.

11. Ibid.

12. Ibid.

13. Ibid.

14. Ibid.

15. Ibid.

16. According to the record of Tahseel Karyalay, Malegaon.

17. Ibid.

18. Ibid.

19 Ibid.

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