Vilas Rupawate Article in indian express

In the dynamic landscape of Indian politics, a transformative shift has occurred within the folds of grassroots advocacy and electoral support. Rewind to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where a remarkable alliance, the 'Durbal Ghatak Aghadi' emerged as a beacon of hope for marginalized voices across Mumbai. From the resilient transpersons to the visually impaired, a diverse array of disadvantaged candidates found solidarity and backing under this alliance's benevolent wings.

Led by Vilas Rupwate, the Durbal Ghatak Aghadi extended its nurturing embrace to 17 candidates amidst the 2019 electoral fervor. These candidates, hailing from the fringes of society including widows, devadasis, domestic workers, and persons with disabilities, found not just financial support but a platform to amplify their voices.

Fast forward to the present, and the political landscape has shifted once more. In a strategic move infused with conviction, Rupwate and his cohort of nine lakh supporters from various marginalized sections have aligned themselves with the Shiv Sena (UBT) since 2022. This alliance comes on the heels of admiration for Uddhav Thackeray's decisive leadership during the tumultuous times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Reflecting on this transition, Rupwate elucidated, "The actions of Uddhav Thackeray during the pandemic, coupled with the betrayal faced from within his own party, stirred a sense of loyalty within us. Hence, we rallied behind the Sena UBT, leaving behind our prior allegiances."

However, amidst this strategic pivot, the fate of the 17 erstwhile candidates supported by the Durbal Ghatak Aghadi remained a pertinent question. Rupwate's response echoed a spirit of collective purpose, stating, "While they may not vie for electoral seats this time, our mission remains unwavering—to combat the autocratic regime and safeguard our Constitution."

The journey of these marginalized candidates in the 2019 elections was emblematic of resilience and determination. From Sneha (Sagar) Kale to Jatin Harne, individuals transcending gender norms, and Rajesh Dayal, navigating the challenges of visual impairment, their candidacy symbolized the aspirations of inclusivity and representation.

Despite facing formidable odds, their electoral endeavors garnered notable recognition. Ramesh Nivruti Kamble, contesting from Latur, and Kishore Rokade, representing Shirdi, stood as testaments to the power of grassroots advocacy, securing significant vote shares.

Within the bustling streets of Mumbai, Harne and Kale from Mumbai North East and Mumbai North Central, respectively, etched their names in the annals of electoral history, resonating with the electorate's conscience. Similarly, Dayal's commendable endeavor in the Mumbai South constituency portrayed an indomitable spirit against adversities.

Rupwate's journey, from founding the Maharashtra Devdasi and Niradhar Mahila Sangathana to his foray into electoral politics, embodies a narrative of relentless activism. His alliance with the Congress party and subsequent departure underscored a quest for genuine representation and advocacy for the marginalized.

In the crucible of Indian politics, where mainstream parties often overlook the plight of the marginalized, the emergence of the Durbal Ghatak Aghadi in 2019 heralded a new era of inclusivity and empowerment. As they chart a new course alongside the Sena UBT, their journey stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of grassroots activism and the pursuit of social justice.