The recent by-election on the Vijaypur assembly seat in Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh has shaken the BJP with an unexpected defeat. BJP candidate and current Forest Minister, Ram Niwas Rawat, faced a disappointing loss to Congress candidate Mukesh Malhotra by a margin of 7,228 votes.
This outcome not only marks a setback for Rawat personally but has also raised significant political questions, particularly regarding the involvement, or lack thereof, of Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia in the campaign.
Key Points of the Vijaypur By-Election
Defeat of a BJP Minister: Ram Niwas Rawat, the BJP’s candidate, was defeated by Mukesh Malhotra of Congress.
Questioning the EVMs: After his loss, Rawat raised concerns about the electronic voting machines (EVMs), repeatedly demanding recounts.
Absence of Scindia in Campaigning: Scindia, a major BJP leader from the region, did not participate in the Vijaypur campaign, which has sparked speculation about internal dynamics within the BJP.
Why Didn’t Scindia Campaign for Rawat?
The absence of Jyotiraditya Scindia in the Vijaypur campaign has led to several speculations. While many top BJP leaders, both from the state and the national level, campaigned for Rawat, Scindia's non-involvement has drawn scrutiny. Some political observers believe that Scindia’s decision to stay away might have stemmed from unresolved grievances dating back to 2020, when the Scindia-led group of Congress defectors joined the BJP, altering Madhya Pradesh’s political landscape.
Given that Vijaypur is a seat where Scindia’s influence could potentially sway voters, his lack of involvement has raised questions:
Was there an internal BJP rift? With Scindia’s faction having joined the BJP just four years ago, some within the party may still harbor mixed feelings about the merger.
Was Scindia’s absence a strategic move? Some analysts suggest Scindia may have chosen not to interfere to test the strength of the existing BJP base in Vijaypur without his influence.
Lingering Discomfort from 2020 Events: Did past events involving Scindia’s shift from Congress to BJP play a role in his decision not to engage in the Vijaypur campaign?
Implications of Scindia’s Absence and Rawat’s Loss
The defeat of a sitting minister has not only embarrassed the BJP but has also led to widespread discussions on how effectively the party is managing its alliances and factional politics. Scindia’s group, having brought critical strength to the BJP in 2020, remains a unique faction within the party. However, the absence of such a key player in Vijaypur is now being seen as a potential cause for Rawat’s defeat.
(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)
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