The election fervor for the second phase is palpable, as preparations for India Block's grand rally get underway in Ranchi, Jharkhand, inviting several coalition leaders.
According to sources, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, AAP MP Sanjay Singh, and his wife have arrived in Ranchi to partake in the 'Ulgulan Rally.' However, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will reportedly be absent due to a sudden illness. Additionally, two seats have been reserved near the stage for Jharkhand's former chief minister Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.
Anticipation of 14 Parties' Leaders Joining the Event
The Prabhat Tara Ground in Ranchi is set to host leaders from 14 parties, including RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and NCP leader Farooq Abdullah.
Other prominent figures expected to attend are Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav, TMC's Derek O'Brien, Shiv Sena's Priyanka Chaturvedi, and CPI(ML)'s Dipankar Bhattacharya. Rahul Gandhi was scheduled to participate but is unable to do so because of his health.
Kejriwal and Hemant Soren's Reserved Seats Spark Curiosity
Jharkhand's current chief minister Champai Soren and former chief minister Hemant Soren's wife Kalpana Soren will be principal speakers. Two seats have also been reserved beside the speaking podium for Hemant Soren and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. 'Ulgulan' refers to a great rebellion concerning rights over water, forests, and land initiated by Birsa Munda.
Rahul Gandhi to Miss the Rally Due to Health Issues
Congress senior leader Jairam Ramesh conveys that Rahul Gandhi was fully prepared for today's campaigning in Satna and Ranchi where India Block's rally is scheduled. Unfortunately, a sudden illness prevents him from traveling out of New Delhi. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, however, will join the rally after addressing a public meeting in Satna.
BJP Approaches Election Commission
In opposition to the grand alliance's rally, the Bharatiya Janata Party has penned a letter to the Election Commission alleging a violation of the model code of conduct, as India Block openly displays banners, posters, and hoarding for this rally.
