AIMIM corporator Sahar Shaikh, who was reportedly “not reachable” amid allegations of submitting a fake caste certificate, was seen attending an IPL match at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, adding a fresh twist to the controversy surrounding her political future.
Shaikh shared a video on her Instagram story while watching the Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings match. In the clip, she appeared wearing a green cap, shirt, and face mask while posing for the camera. Her public appearance comes at a time when the allegations against her are under intense scrutiny.
Fake Caste Certificate Allegations Trigger Political Row
The controversy began after allegations surfaced that Sahar Shaikh had used a fraudulent caste certificate to contest the Thane Municipal Corporation elections. The case has triggered political reactions, especially because of her former association with NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Jitendra Awhad, under whom she was once seen as a rising political face.
According to official sources, a complaint was filed before the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Thane by Siddiqui Farha Sabab Ahmad, seeking verification of Shaikh’s caste certificate. During the inquiry, authorities reportedly found several irregularities in the caste certificate issued by the Mumbai City Collectorate.
Officials Flag Multiple Irregularities in Documents
Among the discrepancies highlighted were jurisdiction concerns, as Shaikh is reportedly a resident of Thane, while the caste certificate was allegedly obtained from Mumbai. Investigators also pointed to procedural lapses such as the absence of the ‘Government of Maharashtra’ heading and the missing signature of the SDO on the certificate.
Further scrutiny revealed inconsistencies in records linked to her father, Yunus Shaikh, along with allegations that a caste certificate from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, may have been used during the process. Officials also noted the absence of ‘Sample 10’ documentation, which is mandatory under the Migration Act, 2000.
Final Inquiry Report to Decide Political Future
During a hearing on March 18, Yunus Shaikh did not appear, citing health concerns, although legal representatives submitted documents for review. A second hearing took place on March 23, and authorities are now waiting for the final inquiry report.
If the allegations are proved, Sahar Shaikh could face immediate disqualification as a corporator, along with possible legal action for allegedly misleading authorities.
Public Appearance Adds to Political Speculation
So far, Sahar Shaikh has not issued any official statement regarding the allegations. However, her appearance at a high-profile IPL match while remaining unavailable for comment has added to political speculation and criticism.
With the final inquiry report pending, the controversy has intensified, and the outcome could have serious consequences for her political career.
Q1. Why is Sahar Shaikh under investigation?
Sahar Shaikh is under investigation for allegedly using a fake caste certificate in the Thane Municipal Corporation elections.
Q2. Where was Sahar Shaikh recently spotted?
She was seen attending the IPL match at Wankhede Stadium during the Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings game.
Q3. What irregularities were found in the caste certificate?
Officials found jurisdiction issues, missing signatures, document inconsistencies, and missing legal documentation.
Q4. Who filed the complaint against Sahar Shaikh?
The complaint was filed by Siddiqui Farha Sabab Ahmad before the Sub-Divisional Officer in Thane.
Q5. What action can be taken if the allegations are proved?
If the allegations are proven, Sahar Shaikh may face disqualification as corporator and legal proceedings.
