In the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, there arises a palpable anticipation surrounding the potential electoral forays of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary organization and Rajya Sabha member KC Venugopal. Congress functionaries assert that the inclusion of these prominent figures in the electoral landscape may compel other seasoned leaders to vie for positions in the imminent Lok Sabha polls.
The strategic focus is keenly directed toward the seasoned veterans, reflecting the Congress party’s fervent desire to augment its Lok Sabha tally. In the electoral dance of 2014, the party secured a modest 44 out of 543 seats, and in 2019, it marginally improved to 52 out of 543. The current political scenario, marked by the Congress being in the opposition, differs from the power dynamics of 2019 when the party held sway in Hindi-speaking states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.
The initial roster of potential contenders, unveiled on March 8, prominently features stalwarts such as Baghel, Venugopal, Tamradhwaj Sahu, Shashi Tharoor, K Suresh, Ashish Saha, Anto Antony, Jyotsana Mahant, and DK Suresh. This diverse list sets the stage for a dynamic political contest.
A subsequent list of candidates is eagerly anticipated following the deliberations of the party’s central election committee, scheduled for March 11. Insightful sources suggest that this meeting will specifically address the allocation of seats in Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam.
Further adding to the roster of potential candidates for the impending Lok Sabha polls are luminaries such as former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda, his son and Rajya Sabha member Deepender Hooda, and ex-Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. Additionally, the prospect of MLAs Harish Chaudhary and Sachin Pilot entering the fray amplifies the political intrigue. Noteworthy is Deepender’s prior stint as Lok Sabha MP from Rohtak, while Harish and Sachin have previously represented Barmer and Ajmer constituencies.
The list extends to include key figures within the party hierarchy, featuring AICC general secretary Jitendra Singh, Madhya Pradesh PCC chief Jitu Patwari, and Rajasthan PCC chief Govind Dotasara. The formidable lineup also encompasses former Madhya Pradesh Chief Ministers Kamal Nath and Digvijay Singh, former MP PCC chief Arun Yadav, and influential Haryana leaders Kumari Selja and Rajya Sabha member Randeep Surjewala.
Intriguingly, the speculation transcends regional boundaries, considering the possible candidature of former CWC member Tariq Anwar from Bihar. Meanwhile, sitting Punjab MP and ex-Union Minister Manish Tewari expresses his readiness to re-enter the political arena, a sentiment shared by former Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal and ex-MP JP Aggarwal, as per party insiders.
A nuanced perspective emerges from AICC secretary-in-charge of Bihar, Ajay Kapoor, who suggests, “It will be advantageous if seasoned leaders participate in the national elections. This not only instills confidence within the party but also assures voters that the best candidates are being fielded.”
Former Delhi MP JP Aggarwal concurs, emphasizing, “Veterans bring with them a wealth of experience in navigating the intricacies of elections. Their accomplishments serve as a testament, and their influence resonates both within the party and the constituencies they represent. Their candidacy undoubtedly reinforces the party’s earnest engagement in the electoral contest.”
Nevertheless, an opposing viewpoint persists within the party ranks. A member of the CWC remarks, “I remain skeptical that the presence of a prominent figure in a state contesting Lok Sabha polls will necessarily sway voters towards other party candidates. National elections are a nuanced interplay, contingent upon various factors that fluctuate from seat to seat.”
In the intricate tapestry of Indian politics, the unfolding drama of candidate selection for the Lok Sabha polls promises a narrative replete with strategic considerations, experienced leadership, and the unpredictable dynamics of the electorate.