High-Stakes By-Election in Vijaypur: this election holds the potential to reshape the trajectories of key leaders

The recent by-election in Vijaypur, a prominent assembly seat in the Chambal region, witnessed significant incidents of conflict, firing, and public uproar. As the voting has concluded, anticipation is high as both parties await the results. Political analysts believe this election holds the potential to reshape the trajectories of key leaders from both the BJP and Congress in the region.

 Narendra Singh Tomar's Strategic Command

In this election, the BJP's campaign in Vijaypur was spearheaded by Narendra Singh Tomar, a seasoned MP with substantial influence in the state and currently holding a significant legislative role. With Tomar at the helm, a BJP victory in Vijaypur could consolidate his political influence in Madhya Pradesh, enhancing his stature within the party. 

Tomar's involvement demonstrates the BJP’s commitment to securing this seat, given that Vijaypur has been represented by BJP candidate Ramniwas Rawat, a six-time MLA and former minister from this constituency, although previously with the Congress.

Interestingly, Rawat, once a fierce rival of Tomar within Chambal politics while in Congress, had contested against Tomar in past Lok Sabha elections but was defeated. Since then, their rivalry has evolved into an unexpected alliance, with Tomar now putting his full weight behind Rawat’s campaign. This coalition underscores the BJP's determination to overcome Congress in this critical seat.

Cong Campaign Led by Jaivardhan Singh and Ashok Singh

On the Congress front, the campaign for candidate Mukesh Malhotra was managed by Jaivardhan Singh, son of former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, with MP Ashok Singh assigned as the official campaign lead. 

However, much of the on-ground campaign effort was driven by Satyapal Singh Sikarwar, popularly known as Neetu, who had recently contested the Lok Sabha elections from Vijaypur, though unsuccessfully. Jaivardhan and Ashok Singh's reluctance to engage more deeply in Vijaypur’s local politics suggests that a Congress victory would primarily benefit Neetu Sikarwar, providing him with increased recognition and influence.

Scindia's distance from Rawat's election campaign...

A striking aspect of the Vijaypur by-election was the conspicuous absence of Jyotiraditya Scindia from the BJP’s campaign efforts. Although Scindia visited Gwalior several times during the campaign period, he refrained from participating in the Vijaypur constituency. Observers link this to his longstanding rivalry with Narendra Singh Tomar within the region’s political landscape. 

The BJP’s decision not to include Scindia among the prominent leaders tasked with Vijaypur’s campaign responsibilities indicates Tomar’s influence in shaping the party’s strategy in Chambal. Adding an interesting twist, Ramniwas Rawat, the BJP candidate, was previously considered part of Scindia’s camp during his time in Congress.

The Vijaypur by-election stands as a pivotal moment for both parties, with implications for future political dynamics in Madhya Pradesh. For BJP, a win could solidify Narendra Singh Tomar’s hold over Chambal’s political sphere. Conversely, a Congress victory could rejuvenate its regional presence and amplify the political capital of leaders like Neetu Sikarwar, providing them with a stronger foothold in the upcoming electoral contests.

(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)