After much anticipation, Congress has finally unveiled its candidates for Delhi's trifecta of seats. Of these, Kanhaiya Kumar emerges as the high-profile nominee set to take on two-time MP and cinema star Manoj Tiwari. All eyes across India are fixed on this election standoff, touted as one of the most significant bouts of this parliamentary election. Here’s why this clash is shaping up to be an election highlight.
1) Purvanchali vs Purvanchali -
North-East Delhi boasts a dense population hailing from Purvanchal, making it one of India's most populous areas. Unauthorized colonies here are home to a vast migrant population from different states. With districts like Burari, Karawal Nagar, Seemapuri, and Gokulpuri housing hundreds of unauthorized colonies, the voting preferences of these inhabitants will play a crucial role in determining the electoral equations.
2) North-East Delhi: A Hub of Communal Polarization -
Infamous for the communal riots of 2020, North-East Delhi has witnessed significant religious polarization. Areas such as Seelampur, Mustafabad, Babarpur, and Karawal Nagar have substantial Muslim populations, accounting for about 21% of all voters within this parliamentary district. Therefore, the electoral narrative is likely to be heavily influenced by religious divisions.
3) A Fascinating Duel of Stars -
Manoj Tiwari, BJP's candidate from North-East Delhi, enjoys strong popularity in the region due to his affiliations as an actor and singer rather than merely a politician. On the other hand, Kanhaiya Kumar's rise to fame as the President of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union brought him into the limelight overnight. With his eloquent speeches and role as the National President of the NSUI, he has become particularly influential among the youth.
4) Modi's Soldier vs Rahul's Right Hand -
Kanhaiya Kumar played an active role in Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, helping to plan these events and mobilize the youth. Once a communist, Kanhaiya is now counted among the most proactive commanders in Rahul's army. Similarly, Manoj Tiwari's importance is underscored by the fact that he is the only current MP re-nominated amongst Delhi's seven seats. Tiwari considers himself a soldier in Narendra Modi's army, and his significant presence is not limited to Delhi's politics but extends to campaigns nationwide.
5) North-East Delhi's Battle Will Steer the Capital's Future -
Regardless of who triumphs in North-East Delhi, the outcome will undoubtedly carve the path for the capital's political future. Both contenders hold the capability to lead their parties within the city's political realm. With the Aam Aadmi Party and Arvind Kejriwal currently entangled in controversies, the victorious party will likely project their candidate as the face of Delhi's future.
