Will Abdul Sattar’s Extensive Political Network Secure Him Fourth Term?

Abdul Sattar Abdul Nabi, a key player in the political landscape of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, is gearing up for the 2024 Assembly elections. With a career that began as a village panchayat member, Sattar has risen through the ranks to serve as a municipal president, MLA, and minister, showcasing his extensive public outreach and communication skills.

Entering politics in 1984 through the village panchayat elections, Sattar made his mark in local governance. He was elected as the municipal president of Sillod city in 1994. His first attempt at the Assembly elections in 1999, however, ended in defeat when he ran as an independent candidate, finishing in second place. Despite facing setbacks, including a narrow loss in 2004 by just 301 votes, Sattar found success in 2009 when he won the Sillod Assembly constituency by a significant margin of 30,000 votes. He continued his winning streak in 2014 and proved to be a formidable force during his second term.

In 2019, Sattar sought a Lok Sabha ticket from the Congress party but was disappointed when he was denied. Subsequently, he resigned from Congress and briefly joined the BJP, only to face opposition from local leaders, prompting his switch to the Shiv Sena.

Sattar's political journey took a significant turn in 2019 when he was re-elected from Sillod and appointed as a minister in Uddhav Thackeray's cabinet, overseeing portfolios such as Revenue, Rural Development, and Port Development. In 2022, he supported Eknath Shinde during a political upheaval and was appointed as the Minister of Waqf and Minority Welfare in the Shinde cabinet.

As a minister, Sattar has focused on the development of the Sillod constituency, successfully securing ₹100 crore for the construction of small check dams and storage tanks. He played a pivotal role in obtaining approval for an agricultural college and ensuring the completion of essential road projects. Furthermore, he has facilitated 24-hour ambulance services for patients in the Sillod Shegaon area by collaborating with government and private entities.

One of Sattar's notable initiatives is the 'My Dear Sister' scheme, launched by Eknath Shinde, which has gained tremendous popularity among women in the state. With over 1.5 million women registered, the scheme offers financial assistance of ₹1,500 to eligible beneficiaries. Sattar has ensured that 57,000 women in his constituency benefit from this program, rallying strong support from the female electorate.

In addition to his political efforts, Sattar has proposed the construction of a large sports complex in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar at Amkhas Maidan, a venue that has traditionally hosted various events. Discussions with Sports Minister Sanjay Bansode have been initiated to bring this project to fruition.

With his straightforward demeanor and a commitment to addressing constituents' needs, Abdul Sattar remains a popular figure across all communities. Despite his transition from Congress to Shiv Sena, his influence in the region remains strong. His good relations with the BJP, as well as the support garnered from the 'My Dear Sister' scheme, are expected to play a crucial role in his bid for a fourth consecutive victory in the Sillod Assembly constituency in the upcoming elections.