Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) remains relatively unknown in mainstream politics. It was founded by Mohammed Amanullah Khan in 1993, following disagreements with AIMIM President Sultan Salahuddin Owaisi. Khan formed MBT (Save Majlis Movement) after being suspended from AIMIM for protesting against the party’s stance during the Babri Masjid demolition.
Despite its lesser-known status, MBT wields significant influence in the old city, alongside AIMIM. Few political parties besides AIMIM and MBT make a substantial impact in this area where minority communities hold sway. However, in the upcoming general elections, MBT has decided to withdraw from contesting the Hyderabad Parliament seat.
MBT leader Farhatullah announced the decision, citing a refusal to cooperate with religious parties and expressing intent to support secular parties, though the specifics remain unclear. This move indirectly favors AIMIM, particularly its leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who has held the Hyderabad MP seat for two decades without defeat.
The dynamics have shifted, with BJP fielding Madhavilatha as its candidate, initially not taken seriously by AIMIM. However, Madhavilatha’s active campaign in the old city, especially during Ramadan, has gained attention. Her efforts to consolidate the Hindu vote and personal outreach have even garnered support from some Muslim voters, causing concern within the AIMIM community.
In the recent assembly elections, AIMIM suffered a significant drop in votes compared to previous elections, indicating a shift among Muslim voters. In the Yakatpura assembly segment, there was a close contest between AIMIM and MBT, with MBT candidate Anjadullah Khan losing by a narrow margin. A similar scenario could spell trouble for AIMIM.
Furthermore, with Congress fielding a Muslim candidate and the potential for MBT’s involvement leading to a split in Muslim votes, political circles speculate MBT’s withdrawal as a sacrifice to prevent BJP’s victory, echoing a historical precedent in Basti.
