Shift in Rajasthan’s political landscape as Congress leaders join BJP ahead of Lok Sabha elections

In a remarkable shift within India’s political landscape, a group of Congress party leaders, including former MLA Gangajal Meel and PCC vice president Sushil Sharma, transitioned to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a day following a public meeting held by prominent Congress figures Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. This move underscores a significant realignment ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan, set to occur in two phases on April 19 and 26.

The departure of several Congress leaders to the BJP, including Hanuman Meel who previously contested assembly elections from Suratgarh, and former PCC vice president Ashok Awasthi, took place in the presence of notable BJP figures Onkar Singh Lakhawat, Narayan Panchariya, and Arun Chaturvedi. Sushil Sharma cited disappointment and factionalism within the Congress ranks as key reasons for this shift. He articulated a sense of neglect towards dedicated Congress workers and highlighted the party’s stance on the Ram temple issue in Ayodhya as a point of contention for those who align with Sanatan Dharma.

The Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan are anticipated with keen interest, marking a critical juncture for both major parties. The first phase on April 19 will witness 12 constituencies, including Ganganagar, Bikaner, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Jaipur Rural, Jaipur, Alwar Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, Dausa, and Nagaur, casting their votes. The subsequent phase on April 26 will cover the remaining 13 seats, including Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, Ajmer, Pali, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jalore, Udaipur, Banswara, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, Bhilwara, Kota, and Jhalawar-Baran.

This political realignment signals a pivotal moment in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, potentially reshaping the electoral dynamics in Rajasthan. The BJP’s reinforcement with former Congress leaders may alter the strategic calculus for both parties, emphasizing the importance of addressing internal dissent and aligning with the electorate’s sentiments on national issues.