MUMBAI: Donning an off-white headscarf, Congress candidate Nikita Nikam is contesting the upcoming BMC elections from ward number 223 in Dongri, a Muslim dominated area.
Daughter of three-time Congress Corporator Dnyanraj Nikam, Nikita is gaining a connection with the voters while campaigning for the election wearing Hijab.
Contesting from ward number 223 in Dongri, where 60% of voters dominated by Muslims, the 26-year-old M.Com and MBA graduate felt that Hijab helps her to establish a better bond with the voters, especially with the women.
“I feel quite comfortable in it. In fact, a Muslim friend had gifted me a headscarf when I was in college. I didn’t wear it then but now I am in hijab when I visit Muslim homes as it helps me establish a better bond,” Nikita said, adding that everyone should have a choice to choose his or her dress. “Someone has gifted me a burqa too, but I have not worn it yet,” said in an interview with Times Of India.
At least two candidates Waqarunnisa Ansari of AIMIM and Neda Fathima of the Samajwadi Party wears burqa while campaigning, therefore Nikita felt it is important to changed her attire.