“Politics Begins With Listening”: Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Ram Salvi on Civic Action, Youth Engagement, and Public Rights

Agency News

Shiv Sena (UBT) member Mr. Ram Salvi has built his political journey on a simple belief: politics must begin with listening. In a candid conversation, he shared how his path into public service was shaped not by personal ambition, but by witnessing the everyday frustrations of Mumbai’s citizens — irregular water supply, broken roads, sanitation lapses, and the silence that often follows complaints. He explains that entering politics felt like the only way to stop being a spectator and start contributing to real change.

What deeply influenced this decision was his admiration for Shiv Sena Pramukh Balasaheb Thackeray, whose boldness, clarity, and unwavering commitment to the common man left a profound impact on him. Salvi describes joining Shiv Sena not merely as joining a political party but as stepping into a legacy rooted in strength, identity, and service to the people.

Working on civic issues forms the foundation of his everyday responsibilities. Mumbai is vast and complicated, he says, but problems become manageable when representatives stay consistently present on the ground. His approach revolves around quick responses, close coordination with municipal authorities, and direct interaction with residents to ensure that their concerns do not disappear into bureaucratic delays. He believes that frustration grows when people feel unheard, and his effort is to bridge that gap with consistent communication and timely action.

A significant part of his recent work focuses on engaging young people, who he feels have immense potential but often remain disconnected from political processes. Instead of relying on speeches, Salvi prefers offering practical pathways — skill development programs, sports infrastructure support, and career guidance sessions — that help youth connect their aspirations to real opportunities. He stresses that young citizens do not lack interest; they lack platforms that genuinely support and uplift them.

In addition to his ongoing civic work, Salvi has turned considerable attention toward consumer protection and worker union rights, two areas he believes urgently need stronger representation. Workers frequently face long hours, unsafe environments, and uncertainty about their rights, and he sees advocacy for fair wages and safe working conditions as essential.

At the same time, consumers struggle with overbilling, misleading charges, delayed services, and unresolved grievances. Salvi has made it a priority to support citizens in navigating these challenges and ensuring they receive fair and transparent treatment in all sectors.

As he reflects on the future, Salvi emphasises a message he wants every citizen — especially the youth — to hear: civic participation should not be restricted to election day. He urges people to stay involved, speak up when things go wrong, and acknowledge positive changes when they happen. For him, a strong city is one where representatives and citizens work together, grounded in dignity, accountability, and mutual respect.