Saleem Sarang (also spelled Salim Sarang; born 1977) is an Indian politician. He is serving as the Maharashtra State Vice-President of the Nationalist Congress Party since 23 November 2023 and Director of Maulana Azad Minorities Financial Development Corporation Limited (MAMFDC) which works under Government of Maharashtra.[1] Previously he served as the National secretary of Nationalist Congress Party's Minority Department.[2] He founded the Muslim Welfare Association and serving as its president since its inception.[3]
In September 2021, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) appointed him as the National General Secretary of the party's minority cell.[7] He also acts as Maharashtra observer for NCP. He previously served as the General Secretary of NCP's minority department of Maharashtra state.[8]
In August 2021, he alleged Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) for poor cleanliness in the city of Navi Mumbai.[9][10] In August 2021, Sarang held a press conference to bring the issue of the e-toilets built by NMMC and hoarding scams by advertising agencies and NMMC. He also openly pointed out the loopholes in the functioning of NMMC.[11]
During Covid 19 pandemic and lockdown in Maharashtra, he reached out to the poor and the needy, among whom were many daily wagers and distributed food and ration kits among 10,000 families, reportedly.[8][12]
Positions held
Sarang was appointed as the Maharashtra State General Secretary of the Nationalist Congress Party’s Minority Cell on 2 September 2021.[13]
Sarang was appointed as the National General Secretary of NCP Minority Department on 20 September 2021.[2]
Appointed as Director of Maulana Azad Minorities Financial Development Corporation Limited (MAMFDC) on 10 October 2024.[1]
Sarang leading Ulema’s under the Nationalist Congress Party advocated for 5% reservations for Muslims in the Educational Sector. He met Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and was assured of the same. He has also written a letter to Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.[16][4] He also met Chhagan Bhujbal accompanied with Ulema Waqf Board delegation and requested for his support in 5% reservation for Muslims.[17][18]
In August 2024, he criticized Ramgiri Maharaj for his comments on Prophet Muhammad. He also demanded for the arrest of Ramgiri Maharaj.[19]
In August 2021, Sarang was awarded the Mumbai Ratna award by Governor of Maharashtra, Bhagat Singh Koshyari in a ceremony hed at Raj Bhavan for his social and philanthropic works.[23] He was one of the 31 individuals from different fields to be awarded.[24]
