Just months after the Rajasthan legislative assembly elections, stalwart Congress leader Hemaram Choudhary refused to enter the fray. Despite supporters' persuasion, Hemaram remained firm not to contest, sparking speculation he might eye a Lok Sabha seat. As the general election approached, his name was suggested for Barmer-Jaisalmer, but he has now dismissed such conjectures.
Rejecting rumors about the Lok Sabha contest, Hemaram stated he informed the party high command of his decision not to participate in any future elections, pledging support for whomever Congress nominates. There's also talk that top Rajasthan Congress members want Hemaram to run from Barmer-Jaisalmer in the Lok Sabha elections. The question arises: why are political leaders vying for assembly tickets, yet so eager to convince Hemaram?
Two main reasons emerge: Hemaram Choudhary's stature and the rumored alliance with Hanuman Beniwal's RLP. Beniwal is said to be demanding two seats in a coalition with Congress, including the contentious Barmer-Jaisalmer seat. Some local Congress leaders are openly opposing this. Hemaram's clean image as a farmer's leader and his outspoken support for Sachin Pilot extend his influence.
Supporters of Sachin Pilot are keen to see Hemaram stay active in electoral politics. There are other viable candidates for the party, like Colonel Sonaram, who returned to Congress after leaving the BJP and is considered a strong claimant for this seat.
Opposition to Alliance with RLP among Congress Leaders
There are growing voices within Congress opposing the rumored alliance with RLP. According to PTI, at a meeting of Congress' screening committee, former minister Harish Choudhary voiced his objection, supported by several senior leaders from Rajasthan. They reminded the party of Beniwal's past critical comments about Congress leadership. If the alliance is forged, Beniwal, currently the MP from Nagaur, is expected to contest again.
A decision on the alliance between Congress and RLP is anticipated within a few days. In the 2019 general elections, Congress didn't win any seats in Rajasthan, where alliance talks with left-wing parties have already been initiated. Now, the party seems ready to extend a hand to RLP for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
