Category: Politics

Celebrity Kangana vs ‘royal’ Vikramaditya on Himachal’s Mandi seat: Clash of richest titans

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Clash of the two richest titans, a celebrity and a ‘royal’, is on the cards in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi Lok Sabha constituency, known for electing erstwhile “royals” maximum number of times. The BJP has for the first time fielded a woman and a Bollywood celebrity in Kangana Ranaut who will take on Vikramaditya Singh, scion of the erstwhile Rampur “royal family” and son of six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh.

Both the rivals have launched a high-pitched campaign, even with offensive outbursts. Vikramaditya fired a salvo at Kangana asking about her vision about the development of the constituency. Taking a dig at his rival, he said she is on a month-long political tourism and would pack up and return to Bollywood after June 4.

Returning the salvo, Kangana dubbed Vikramaditya as “Chhota Pappu”. It was a mocking reference to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who is often dubbed as “Pappu” or a novice by his political opponents. Kangana called Vikramaditya a “junior Pappu”. She asked him why he stood mum when Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu took “anti-Mandi decisions” like stalling the Rs 250-?crore Shiv Dhan project, curtailing the jurisdiction of Mandi University and pushing the Sundernagar airfield project under the carpet.

Kangana’s main agendas include restarting all the stalled projects besides improving connectivity to remote tribal areas, and popularising local cuisines and traditional attires, and promoting women-centric rural tourism in Seraj and Karsog. “Mandi will be made a smart city,” this is my promise, said Vikramaditya, adding that Jalori Jot tunnel will be constructed on the line of Rohtang tunnel and remote Pangi area of Chamba will be connected with Tissa, besides the construction of Beas river front.

The alleged insulting remarks by Kangana on farmers during the farmer agitation are recoiling and the Samyukt Kisan Manch has rendered their support to Vikramaditya. On the other hand, Kangana got support from unexpected quarters. The scion of Kullu Maheshwar Singh, who was an aspirant of a BJP ticket from Mandi; former Union minister Sukh Ram’s grandson Ashray Sharma, who was defeated by BJP candidate Ram Swaroop Sharma in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls; and Kargil hero Brig Khushal Singh, who was defeated by Pratibha Singh in the 2021 parliamentary byelection with a narrow margin have extended their support to the Bollywood actor.

Kangana dubbed Vikramaditya also as a “bigda hua shezada” (spolit prince) and a ‘paltu’ (one who makes U-turns) and said he used to criticise his own government but now is praising it. Singh retaliated by saying she will return “purified” from the ‘Dev bhoomi’.

Both Bollywood reel ‘Queen’ Kangana and ‘Raja’ Vikramaditya Singh have declared their assets over of Rs 90 crore. Kangana is banking on her celebrity image, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ram temple factors.

Vikramaditya is hoping to sail through riding on the legacy of his father Virbhadra Singh and state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, the sitting MP from Mandi. Vikramaditya, who was active during the monsoon disaster in 2023, has been asking where Kangana was when it had hit the state and caused havoc in the Mandi-Kullu region.

The BJP candidate is accused of being unfamiliar with her constituency while the Congress candidate has extensively campaigned for his mother in the last byelections. Out of 19 parliamentary elections, including two byelections held in Mandi since 1952, the Congress has won 13 times, with both Virbhadra Singh and Pratibha Singh winning thrice. Further, the scions of erstwhile princely states won from Mandi 13 times while the “non-royals” were elected six times.

Raj Kumai Amrit Kaur of the Kapurthala dynasty and Raja Joginder Sen Bahadur of the princely state of Mandi were elected once, Raja Lalit Sen of Suket represented Mandi twice, Virbhadra Singh and Pratibha Singh three times each and Raja Maheshwar Singh of Kullu won thrice. Sukh Ram who won from Mandi three times, Ram Swaroop who won two times and Ganga Singh who won once, when he defeated Virbhadra Singh in 1977, were the exceptions who hailed from non-royal families.

The sprawling constituency spreads over six districts and comprises 17 assembly segments. In the 2022 assembly polls, the BJP had won 12 assembly seats falling under Mandi parliamentary constituency. The seat has become prestigious for former chief minister Jai Ram Thakur, who has to establish that the BJP still holds sway in Mandi.

Vikramaditya Singh has to prove that the impact of the Rampur ‘ruling’ family is deep-rooted in this constituency. There are 13,77,173 voters in the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency, including 6,98,666 males, 6,78,504 females and three third gender.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Bibhav Kumar files complaint against Swati Maliwal for unauthorised entry and disturbance

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Arvind Kejriwal’s aide, Bibhav Kumar, filed a police complaint on Friday, May 17, against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal, accusing her of unauthorised entry into the Chief Minister’s residence on May 13, which led to a commotion, according to party sources.

In the complaint sent via email to the SHO of the Civil Lines Police Station, Kumar claimed that Maliwal forcibly breached the security of the CM’s residence and caused a disturbance. When he attempted to prevent her entry, she allegedly hurled abuses at him.

Written Compliant submitted by email by Shri Bibhav Kumar against Ms Swati Maliwal to SHO Civil Lines on 17.05.2024 pic.twitter.com/vCL4LlRKOO

— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) May 17, 2024

Kumar also stated that Maliwal is now trying to falsely implicate him by alleging that he assaulted her during her visit to meet Kejriwal.

Kumar’s complaint detailed that Maliwal “forcefully and illegally trespassed” into the CM’s residence despite objections from security and CMO staff. On May 13, Maliwal reportedly told security personnel that she was a Rajya Sabha MP and, despite being asked to wait for appointment verification, she forcibly entered the premises.

In response, Swati Maliwal filed an FIR against Bibhav Kumar, accusing him of assault. According to her complaint, she was assaulted by Kumar when she went to meet Kejriwal at his residence.

Based on Maliwal’s allegations, the police booked Kumar under various sections, including 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 341 (wrongful restraint), 354B (assault or use of criminal force against a woman with intent to disrobe), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 509 (insult to the modesty of a woman).

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

2024 Lok Sabha Elections | Will Amethi and Rae Bareli see the rise of Priyanka Gandhi as a dominant political figure

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role as an organiser and strategist for the Congress party is pivotal. Media reports in the last one week projected that, by taking charge of the campaign in the Gandhi bastions of Rae Bareli and Amethi, Priyanka has emerged as a non-playing captain, steering the party’s efforts with a blend of familial legacy and political acumen.

Her campaigns involved a personal touch, sharing anecdotes from her family’s political journey, and connecting with voters on a grassroots level. An MSN report claimed that this approach is designed to counter the BJP’s narrative and leverage the Gandhi family’s historical connection with the constituencies.

Priyanka’s decision to not contest the elections herself is a calculated move to avoid reinforcing the BJP’s accusations of dynastic politics. Instead, she focuses on campaigning for other candidates, including her brother Rahul Gandhi and close family aide Kishori Lal Sharma, the report wrote. 

Her role extends beyond public appearances — she is the backroom strategist, working tirelessly to ensure the Congress party’s success in these crucial seats. The aim is to revitalise the party’s presence in Uttar Pradesh and challenge the BJP’s dominance.

Priyanka Gandhi’s organisational skills and her ability to mobilise the party machinery by blending the tradition and modern electoral strategies could be the Congress’s trump card in the 2024 elections. 

A Backroom Strategist 

As the political fervour ramps up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, one notable absence from the fray is that of Priyanka Gandhi. Her decision not to contest has sparked widespread speculation and commentary. However, a closer look reveals a strategic masterstroke aimed at addressing a critical need within the Congress party — the need for an effective organisation builder.

Since Sonia Gandhi stepped back from day-to-day organisational planning, the Congress party has struggled to maintain a cohesive and strategic framework. The void left by her absence is palpable, and the party’s recent electoral performances have underscored this deficiency. Rahul Gandhi, despite his earnest efforts, has not been able to fill this gap. While his initiatives, including the two significant Yatras, were high on visibility, they were low on the ground-level organisational restructuring that the party desperately needs. His prominent position as the undeclared Prime Ministerial candidate has often overshadowed his organisational contributions, leading to a perception that he is more of a figurehead than a backroom strategist.

In this context, Priyanka Gandhi’s choice to forgo the electoral limelight emerges as a calculated and altruistic move. Despite her illustrious lineage, Priyanka has cultivated an image of selflessness, a politician committed to the party’s resurgence rather than personal aggrandisement. By opting to work behind the scenes, she positions herself as the anchor that the Congress party needs to steer through turbulent times.

Priyanka’s strategy is not just about optics; it’s about substance. She is focusing on rebuilding the party’s organisational structure from the ground up, fostering unity, and nurturing grassroots leadership. This approach ensures that the Congress party is not just preparing for the next election, but for a sustainable future. Her behind-the-scenes role allows her to campaign vigorously, mentor emerging leaders, and instil a sense of discipline and direction within the party ranks without the distractions of electoral ambitions.

In essence, Priyanka Gandhi’s decision is a testament to her vision for a revitalised Congress party. By stepping back from the electoral battlefield, she is stepping up as the organiser the party desperately needs, embodying a new paradigm of selfless leadership aimed at long-term rejuvenation rather than short-term gains.

 New Troubleshooter After Ahmed Patel 

In the political chessboard of India, the Congress party seems to be positioning Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as its Chanakya, a role previously adorned by the late Ahmed Patel. Her recent manoeuvres in Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh signal a strategic shift, potentially grooming her as the troubleshooter for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Gandhi’s intervention in Himachal Pradesh was timely and decisive. As the Congress faced internal strife, her diplomatic engagement was pivotal in maintaining the party’s governance in the state. This move showcased her crisis management skills and her ability to navigate complex party dynamics.

Her role in salvaging the Congress-SP alliance in Uttar Pradesh further cements her position as a key strategist. The seat-sharing stalemate was broken with her intervention, leading to a more favourable deal for Congress. This not only reflects her negotiation prowess but also her understanding of electoral maths and regional sensibilities.

Critical Amethi and Rae Bareli

However, recent reports suggest that Gandhi is not just a backroom strategist but also at the forefront of the Congress campaign in critical constituencies like Amethi and Raebareli. Her efforts aim at consolidating support and ensuring victories against formidable opponents. Despite opting out of the electoral race, she remains a star campaigner, extensively touring the country alongside her brother, Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress party’s strategy for the 2024 elections appears multi-pronged, with a focus on direct outreach and social media engagement. Priyanka Gandhi’s role in this strategy is crucial, as she brings a blend of emotional connection and political savvy to the table. Her presence on the campaign trail, sharing personal anecdotes and engaging with the electorate, adds a human touch to the Congress narrative.

As the elections approach, the question remains whether Priyanka Gandhi’s strategic acumen can translate into electoral success for the Congress. Her recent actions suggest that the party is banking on her abilities to navigate the turbulent waters of Indian politics and emerge victorious. Whether she will fulfil the role of a modern-day Chanakya and lead the party to triumph in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is a narrative still unfolding.

Strategic Sidestep 

Priyanka Gandhi decision to not contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is a strategic sidestep that could redefine the Congress party’s narrative. Media reports suggest that Priyanka is cognizant of the optics that would emerge if she were to win a seat in Parliament, alongside her brother Rahul Gandhi and mother Sonia Gandhi, who is a Rajya Sabha MP. The potential concentration of the Gandhi family within the legislative houses could play into the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) longstanding critique of the Congress as a dynastic entity.

Aimed at dismantling the BJP’s narrative and avoiding giving them ammunition to reinforce allegations of nepotism, her choice to refrain from contesting is a tactical one. It is also a move that reflects a deeper understanding of the political landscape and the power of perception in shaping electoral outcomes. 

This decision could have significant implications for the Congress party. It allows the party to present a more collective leadership front, diluting the dynastic image and potentially attracting voters who are wary of family-centric politics. Moreover, it enables Priyanka to campaign more freely across the country, lending her charisma and political acumen to bolster the prospects of other Congress candidates.

In conclusion, Priyanka Gandhi’s absence from the electoral battleground is not a retreat but a repositioning. It is a calculated move that could help the Congress party navigate the complex currents of today’s politics and emerge with a narrative that transcends familial legacy, focusing instead on governance, policy, and national development.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

ED files chargesheet against Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi Excise Policy case

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has formally charged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in a high-profile money laundering case related to the controversial Delhi excise policy. The prosecution complaint (chargesheet) was filed in the Rouse Avenue Court on Friday, May 17.

This marks the eighth prosecution complaint in the ongoing investigation. The ED’s case is rooted in allegations of a criminal conspiracy to manipulate the Delhi Excise Policy of 2021-22 for the benefit of certain liquor sellers. Key figures accused alongside Kejriwal include former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders.

The ED’s investigation, which began following a complaint from Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena and a subsequent CBI case in 2022, has previously named several high-profile individuals. On May 10, the ED filed its seventh chargesheet, accusing Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K. Kavitha and four others.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and detained in Tihar jail. He was later granted interim bail by the Supreme Court until June 1, allowing him to campaign for AAP in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Similarly, Kavitha was arrested on March 15 in Hyderabad for her alleged involvement in the case.

The ED alleges that AAP leaders orchestrated a scheme to benefit select liquor vendors from South India, who in return, funnelled part of their profits to the party. These funds were reportedly used to finance AAP’s campaign for the Goa Assembly elections.

The case involves charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code, with the ED conducting a parallel probe into the money laundering aspects. The developments have added a new layer of complexity to the political landscape, as the Lok Sabha elections continue across the country.

Also read: AAP named accused in Delhi liquor policy case, says report

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Lok Sabha Election 2024: I.N.D.I.A. bloc to hold rally at Mumbai’s BKC today

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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An I.N.D.I.A. bloc rally is set to be held on Friday (May 17) evening, at BKC’s Pathaka Maidan. The rally will be ahead of the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, which are scheduled for Monday, May 20, even as PM Modi will address another rally in Shivaji Park.

In Maharashtra, 13 constituencies will undergo polling, including six constituencies in Mumbai —Mumbai North, Mumbai North-West, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai South-Central, Mumbai South.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, along with Shiv Sena (UBT) President Uddhav Thackeray, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) President Sharad Pawar, MPCC President Nana Patole and Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat, will address the rally in the metropolitan region. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is campaigning in Raebareli along with Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, will not join the I.N.D.I.A. alliance leaders in Mumbai.

ALSO READ | ‘Modi won’t be Prime Minister’ | Rahul Gandhi Exclusive

#WATCH | AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal arrives in Mumbai, to take part in INDIA bloc’s rally at BKC pic.twitter.com/M4JDSsKkOz

— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2024

Meanwhile, PM Narendra Modi will also address a rally at Shivaji Park in Mumbai’s Dadar along with leaders from the alliance the same evening. In PM Modi’s rally, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, MNS Chief Raj Thackeray, and Union Minister of State Ramdas Athawale will also address the gathering. In Mumbai, the BJP and Shinde’s Shiv Sena are contesting for three seats each.

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‘Modi won’t be Prime Minister’ | Rahul Gandhi Exclusive

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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In an exclusive interview with News18 India, Rahul Gandhi made a bold prediction about the future of Indian politics, confidently stating that Narendra Modi will not continue as prime minister after the upcoming elections.

Speaking to News18 India, Gandhi outlined his reasons, saying, “I don’t think they will get more than 180-200 seats. Narendra Modi will not be the prime minister, I can assure you that.” He emphasised that the central issue is the election itself, highlighting concerns about constitutional changes and the impact on youth employment.

Gandhi criticised the current government’s approach, alleging, “Their leaders are openly saying, ‘we will change the Constitution, throw it away.’ They’ve attacked reservation policies and left millions of youths unemployed. The whole country is aware of this.”

Gandhi expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, predicting a strong performance for the I.N.D.I.A. bloc, which he believes will form the next government. Addressing questions about the alliance’s manifesto, he explained that it reflects the voices and needs of the people, particularly those expressed during the Bharat Jodo Yatra.

When asked about the I.N.D.I.A. bloc’s leadership plans, specifically the rumour of changing the prime minister every year, Gandhi dismissed the idea, stating firmly, “It won’t happen. The I.N.D.I.A. alliance will decide that.”

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

AAP named accused in Delhi liquor policy case, says report

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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In a major setback for the Aam Aadmi Party, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday told the Supreme Court that it has named the party as an accused in the Delhi liquor policy case, the Live Law reported.

Additional Solicitor General SV Raju informed the court during the hearing in AAP leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s petition challenging his arrest by the ED. The ASG said that the prosecution complaint will be filed today by the ED, in which the AAP has been named as an accused.

Presently, Kejriwal is out on interim bail till June 1 in view of Lok Sabha elections. He has to return to Tihar Jail on June 2.

On May 16, Raju had claimed that the probe agency has enough evidence to show that Kejriwal demanded ₹100 crore bribe which was used by AAP in the Goa assembly poll campaign.

“We have direct evidence that Kejriwal stayed in a seven-star hotel, whose bills were partly paid by an accused in the case,” Raju submitted, adding Kejriwal played a key role in the formulation of the now scrapped Delhi excise policy. He alleged that Kejriwal, as the national convenor of the AAP, was vicariously responsible for the alleged scam.

The Delhi chief minister was arrested on March 21 in the money laundering case related to alleged corruption in the formulation and execution of the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22, which has now been scrapped.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Swati Maliwal assault case: AAP MP records statement before magistrate, Delhi Police could not enter Bibhav’s residence

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Aam Aadmi Party MP Swati Maliwal on Friday, May 17, recorded her statement before a magistrate at the Tis Hazari court about the alleged assault on her by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s aide Bibhav Kumar.

According to the contents of the statement given by Maliwal to police, she was sitting in the drawing room when Kumar came and allegedly slapped her multiple times. She ran out of the CM’s residence and called police, the MP stated in her complaint. She also claimed that Kejriwal was present at his residence when the incident took place.

A team of Delhi Police was not allowed to enter the premises of Kumar’s residence today.

BJP leader and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held Kejriwal responsible for the incident. “The women in Delhi are asking – can this CM (Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal) even provide security to the women in the city? Arvind Kejriwal is responsible for this incident…” she told reporters.

Sitharaman said there was pressure not to register a complaint against Kumar. “The fact that Swati Maliwal did not register a complaint in the police for 3-4 days (after the incident) means that there was pressure on her from high-level. There is reason to believe that there was enough pressure on her and probably continues on her.”

On May 16, the Delhi Police registered an FIR in the matter and named Kumar as an accused in the case, officials said. The FIR was registered against Kumar under Indian Penal Code sections 354 (assault or criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation), 509 (word gesture or act of intent to insult) and 323 (assault).

On May 13 morning, Maliwal went to the Civil Lines police station and alleged that a member of Kejriwal’s personal staff “assaulted” her at the chief minister’s official residence.

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

In Ayodhya, voters talk of a promise fulfilled and yearning for development

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The year began with Ayodhya getting ready for the Ram temple consecration ceremony. Almost four months later, the excitement has settled down and some voters are crediting the BJP for fulfilling its promise while others feel that development should reach every corner of the district.

Prajjwal Singh, a resident of Arhgarha Chauraha, told PTI that Ayodhya’s transformation began on January 22, when the Ram temple consecration ceremony was held.

“On January 22, 2024, the promise that was made to us by various BJP leaders was fulfilled in a grand manner. From that day, Ayodhya set out on the path of development,” he said.

“The hospitality sector has seen visible growth. A number of eateries and food joints have come up. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath deserve a round of applause for such a positive transformation of Ayodhya,” Prajjwal Singh told PTI.

He said there are some traffic woes in the area but they are temporary and will be resolved subsequently.

Tulsinagar resident Amit Pathak said growing up, he has witnessed the political and physical transformation of Ayodhya.

“No prime minister or chief minister has visited Ayodhya as many times as Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath. Electric buses, railway station beautification and airport inauguration are some examples of this transformation,” he said, adding that today, it is easier to reach Ayodhya from any other part of the country.

Himanshu Varma, a resident of Nirmochan Chauraha, said Ayodhya has witnessed development and it will take time to reach the entire district.

Yashvendra Pratap Singh, a resident of the Khajurhat area of Ayodhya said there is no doubt the Ram temple has had a positive impact on the minds of people and that it has given an edge to the BJP over its rivals.

“However, infrastructure development should also take place in the outskirts of Ayodhya,” he said.

“Holistic development of the entire district should take place. For example, the pilgrims who come to visit the Ram temple have to walk a few kilometres in scorching heat. There should be arrangements to provide water to them,” he added.

Homepathy doctor Indroneel Banerjee said issues like parking and sewerage system need attention.

“These elections will definitely be fought by the ruling party in the name of Lord Ram. A number of positive things have happened. The service sector has benefited in the last four months thanks to the Ram temple,” he said.

“But some problems like lack of parking space remain. For a city which wants to take the next step in road traffic management, having parking lots is essential. The sewerage system could be a challenge in the days to come. We will come to know what steps have been taken to tackle waterlogging,” he said.

Shailesh Singh, a resident of the Balapakauli area, said rest houses should be built for pilgrims and steps should be taken to minimize traffic jams.

For Adarsh Prakash, inflation and income tax relief and not Ram temple are the main issues in this election.

Polling in the Faizabad Lok Sabha constituency will be held in the fifth round of the seven-phase elections on May 20. It comprises five assembly segments — Dariyabad, Rudauli, Mikipur (SC), Bikapur and Ayodhya Of these, Dariyabad is located in neighbouring Barabanki district and the remaining four assembly segments are in Ayodhya district.

There are 19,27,459 eligible voters in the Faizabad constituency.

Thirteen candidates are in the fray, including sitting BJP MP Lallu Singh and Samajwadi Party’s sitting Milkipur MLA Awadhesh Prasad.

Lallu Singh is eyeing a hat-trick from the seat.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: What rural Delhi wants

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Fight of heavyweights in Sambalpur where farmers, weavers hold the key

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Unemployment and distress sale of paddy are the pressing issues in Odisha’s Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency, where Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan of the BJP and influential BJD general secretary (organisation) Pranab Prakash Das are poised for a showdown. The candidates’ attention is squarely on farmers and weavers, who are crucial in a region that encompasses the catchment area of the Hirakud reservoir and has a thriving handloom industry.

The majority of Sambalpur’s population, concentrated in five of its seven assembly constituencies, relies either on agriculture or the harvesting of Kendu and Sal leaves for their livelihoods. Pradhan, who is a Rajya Sabha MP from Bihar, is contesting elections after a gap of 15 years. He had last unsuccessfully contested assembly elections from Parlahara assembly segment in 2009.

Das, on the other hand, is the sitting MLA of Jajpur seat in the coastal region. He is known to be an influential organiser of the party. The prestigious Sambalpur parliamentary constituency was represented by the BJD during its alliance with BJP three times in a row in 1998, 1999 and 2004.

In 2009, 2014 and 2019, however, voters of the constituency elected Congress, BJD and BJP candidates respectively. Pradhan, a resident of Talcher town in Angul district and son of former Union minister Debendra Pradhan, has been a central minister since 2014 and is banking on the initiatives of the Union government to register a victory.

“We are optimistic that people will vote on the lotus symbol. The BJP-led Centre has established IIM Sambalpur and people are happy with the developmental work of the Union government,” he said. Das, a three-term Jajpur MLA and son of former Janata Dal state president Ashok Dash, claimed that people love Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and have been benefited from the BJD governments’ schemes for farmers, weavers, students, youths and women.

“The BJD government’s Kalia scheme for farmers is very popular in this region,” Das said. Although a total of 14 candidates are in the fray, the contest is directly between Pradhan and Das.

Congress has nominated former BJD MP and ex-minister Nagendra Pradhan, who quit the ruling party in the state and joined the grand old party a few days before filing his nominations. The Congress had first named Dulal Chandra Pradhan from the seat but later changed its candidate to Nagendra Pradhan, who had won from the constituency in 2014 on a BJD ticket, after he joined the grand old party. Aggrieved by the party’s decision, Dulal Chandra Pradhan later joined the BJP.

Nagendra Pradhan was elected from the Athamalik assembly segment three times, in 1990 on a Janata Dal ticket and in 2004 and 2014 as a BJD candidate. He had also served in the Naveen Patnaik cabinet. The Sambalpur parliamentary constituency was reorganised in a delimitation exercise ahead of the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

It comprises Sambalpur, Rairhakhol, Kuchinda and Rengali assembly constituencies in Sambalpur district, Athamallik and Chhendipada assembly segments in Angul district and Deogarh assembly constituency in Deogarh district. BJD had won the Rairhakhol, Kuchinda, Chhendipada and Athamallik assembly seats, while the BJP bagged Sambalpur, Deogarh and Rengali assembly seats in the 2019 elections.

In the 2009, 2014 and 2019 elections, Sambalpur sent three different party candidates to the Lok Sabha. In 2009, the Congress won by a margin of 14,874 votes, while the BJD secured the seat in 2014, winning by 30,574 votes. The BJP bagged the seat in 2019 by a margin of only 9,162 votes.

The candidates of the three major parties were seen campaigning in the scorching heat, reaching out to representatives of various communities, entrepreneurs, artistes and sportspersons.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow