Of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in phase one and two in Rajasthan, the Barmer-Jaisalmer constituency stands out. With independent candidate Ravinder Singh Bhati challenging Congress's Umedaram Beniwal and BJP's Kailash Choudhary, this seat has become one of the most thrilling triangular contests to witness. Bhati, who initially signaled a bi-polar contest, has now turned the tables to create an intriguing three-fold battle.
Ravinder Bhati, currently an MLA from Sheo assembly region, stepped into the electoral arena as an independent after talks with BJP did not come to fruition. His presence signifies a palpable escalation in the political temperature.
During a conversation with Aaj Tak/India Today, Bhati emphasized, "I am confident. The unwavering support from elder-like figures, the empowering women, the young influencers, and the confluence of 36 communities assures me that Ravinder will emerge foremost, not just as a leader, but as a dedicated son for this region."
A Talking Point in the Region: Ravinder Bhati
A young talent in politics at just 26, hailing from the Rajput community, Bhati has leveraged his student politics experience to fine-tune his political savvy. His rallies, particularly in Barmer, attract large crowds and have placed him in the spotlight of city discussions. Citizens are notably comparing his growing popularity to Sachin Pilot, signaling rough seas ahead for the traditional BJP and Congress contestants.
Meanwhile, Kailash Choudhary of the BJP, who is facing scrutiny over local infrastructure issues, attempts to navigate through criticism. As the incumbent MP since 2019, he pleads with the electorate not to let Modi suffer for local governance lapses.
Prime Ministerial Power Play in Barmer
In a strategic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to rally in Barmer in support of Choudhary. The BJP candidate praises Modi's contributions, "PM Narendra Modi's focus on development, poverty alleviation programs, and infrastructure has earned global respect and fortified our nation's economic prowess," he asserts.
Congress Eyes Advantage in Vote Sharing
On the flip side, Congress's Beniwal could gain an edge due to vote share dynamics potentially favoring him if Bhati succeeds in denting BJP's voter base. Beniwal, having recently defected from the National Democratic Party to Congress, senses an opportunity amidst the shifting electoral mosaic.
Political pundits postulate that in Barmer-Jaisalmer, where the elective stakes are high with over two million electors, the dominant Jat and Rajput voter blocs could swing the win. Local concerns, such as unpaved roads and educational oversight, resonate amongst disillusioned citizens like Rajendra, who laments, "The roads are riddled with potholes; schools languish without steady teacher attendance, leaving students bereft of education. The local sentiment calls for change amid stagnation."
