Amidst the political landscape of New Delhi, the maneuvering within the Congress party stands as a testament to strategic prowess. Recognizing the critical importance of representation, especially within the influential Brahmin community constituting 8 percent of the state’s vote share in Rajasthan, the party swiftly moved to rectify an oversight.

Behind the scenes, two pivotal factors shaped the Congress strategy as the process of candidate selection unfolded in Rajasthan. Recent electoral outcomes had favored the BJP, thrusting a lesser-known Brahmin figure, Bhajan Lal Sharma, into the spotlight as the Chief Minister. Yet, amidst this landscape, an oversight occurred.

Sunil Sharma, initially nominated as the Congress candidate in Jaipur, faced replacement by the outsider and former minister, Pratap Singh Kachariyawas, upon revelations of Sharma’s association with the critical “Jaipur Dialogues.” Even stalwart leader Shashi Tharoor voiced dissent over Sharma’s candidacy, sparking a discourse within the party ranks.

The absence of Brahmin representation triggered a stir among supporters of veteran CP Joshi, prompting a reevaluation by party strategists. On March 29, the Central Election Committee undertook corrective measures, nominating CP Joshi for the Bhilwara seat, a familiar territory for the seasoned leader. Damodar Gurjar, in turn, was reassigned to the Rajsamand seat, marking a strategic recalibration.

Reflecting on the turn of events, a senior AICC functionary remarked on the oversight in the screening process and the subsequent corrective measures. Initial focus on OBC representation during screening committee meetings shifted the narrative, leading to a reassessment of candidate demographics.

Of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, the Congress, in alliance with partners, allocated seats to various communities, with emphasis on OBCs and other marginalized groups. Yet, amidst these deliberations, the party remains open to negotiations, hopeful of securing alliances for optimal electoral outcomes.

Despite the formidable challenge posed by the BJP, buoyed by its 2019 sweep, the Congress exudes confidence in its revamped strategy. With strategic candidate placements, including former BJP figures, the party anticipates a shift in electoral dynamics, poised to offer a formidable challenge to its adversaries. As AICC general secretary SS Randhawa succinctly puts it, “Change is inevitable, and surprises await the BJP in this electoral saga.”