Arun Gawli's Release Sparks Speculation on Mumbai's Underworld and Politics
Arun Gawli, once a top figure in Mumbai's underworld, has been released after 17 years. His return raises questions about his potential resurgence and the impact on the city's real estate and political landscapes.
Arun GawliMumbai UnderworldReal EstatePoliticsMcgm ElectionsReal Estate MumbaiSep 04, 2025
The release of Gawli, who is popularly known as 'Daddy' by his supporters, has sparked speculation about his potential comeback in both the underworld and politics. The Supreme Court has set strict conditions for his bail, which may prevent him from officially engaging in 'bhaigiri' (gang activities). However, this does not preclude him from reasserting his influence through proxies.
Currently, there is a significant vacuum in Mumbai's underworld. Dawood Ibrahim, one of the most notorious dons, has relocated to Pakistan and is believed to be operating in tandem with the ISI. Chhota Rajan, another significant figure, is in Tihar Jail, Delhi, with health issues. Ashwin Naik is confined to a wheelchair after a stroke, and the Thakur gang is limited to the Vasai-Virar belt. This leaves a clear opening for Gawli to potentially fill.
Gawli, unlike other gangsters who moved to Dubai after a police crackdown, refused to leave Mumbai. He operated from Dagdi Chawl, a stronghold not far from Byculla railway station. Gawli has a history of opposing Dawood Ibrahim, whom he considered an anti-national. Gawli once rejected a compromise proposal from Dawood, stating, 'There was absolutely no question of any compromise with him.'
The real estate industry in Mumbai is currently experiencing an unprecedented boom, driven by massive redevelopment projects. In the past, no construction project in central Mumbai, including Lower Parel, could proceed without 'donations' to Gawli's gang. The redevelopment of defunct textile mills provided a rich harvest for Gawli. His return may lead to an increase in extortion threats in the real estate sector.
The release of Gawli coincides with the preparation for the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) elections, which has an annual budget of over Rs 74,000 crores. Gawli's gang could influence the fortunes of candidates in at least 70 wards in central Mumbai. Gawli himself had previously floated a political party, Akhil Bharatiya Sena, and won the assembly elections from Chinchpokli constituency in 2004. It is not surprising if he fields his own candidates in the upcoming elections, potentially deciding the next mayor of Mumbai if there is a hung house.
In the past, the Shiv Sena, led by Bal Thackeray, openly supported Gawli, projecting him as a 'Hindu don.' However, the political landscape has changed, and the BJP, keen on installing its mayor, may work out a tacit understanding with Gawli.
Overall, the situation in Mumbai's dormant underworld and politics may witness significant changes following Gawli's return to Dagdi Chawl. This year's Navratri celebrations in Dagdi Chawl are expected to be the grandest ever staged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Arun Gawli?
Arun Gawli, popularly known as 'Daddy,' is a former top figure in Mumbai's underworld. He was active in the 1980s and 1990s and has been released after 17 years of incarceration.
Why was Arun Gawli released?
Arun Gawli was released on bail by the Supreme Court in the 2007 murder case of corporator Kamlakar Jamsandhekar. The court set strict conditions for his bail.
What is the current state of Mumbai's underworld?
Currently, there is a significant vacuum in Mumbai's underworld. Notable figures like Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan are either in hiding or in jail, leaving a clear opening for new leaders like Arun Gawli.
How might Arun Gawli's release impact the real estate sector?
Arun Gawli's return may lead to an increase in extortion threats in the real estate sector, especially in central Mumbai, where his gang previously demanded 'donations' for construction projects.
What role could Arun Gawli play in the upcoming MCGM elections?
Arun Gawli's gang could influence the fortunes of candidates in at least 70 wards in central Mumbai. He might field his own candidates, potentially deciding the next mayor of Mumbai if there is a hung house.
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