Independent may queer pitch for Cong & BJP in Jhunjhunu
Jaipur: The Jhunjhunu assembly bypoll with Congress, BJP,and an independent candidate is locked in fierce competition. Congress's Amit Ola, a third-generation leader, is from the Ola political dynasty, while it is third attempt for BJP's Rajendra Bhambu. Adding intrigue to the race, former minister Rajendra Gudha's independent bid sparked speculation about potential vote splits.
The Jat-dominated constituency prompted both Congress and BJP to field Jat candidates, yet Gudha's entry as an Independent disrupted the usual equations. His appeal to Muslim, Rajput, and SC communities compelled both parties to intensify efforts to balance caste dynamics.
BJP's campaign was bolstered by key figures, with CM Bhajan Lal Sharma and deputy CM Diya Kumari leading against Congress stronghold. Other notable leaders, including ministers Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Sumit Godara and former state president Satish Poonia, a prominent Jat face, campaigned vigorously, rallying voters and seeking to tip the scales in BJP's favour.
On the Congress side, MP Brijendra Ola, Amit's father, personally managed canvassing with plans to bring in star campaigners to energise their base. "For the Ola family, this election is a matter of prestige," says political analyst Ravindra Sharma. The Ola legacy in Jhunjhunu, shaped by Brijendra's four consecutive terms and his father Shishram Ola's tenure since 1951, cemented their influence in the constituency. Now, Amit seeks to uphold this legacy.
One of Congress's major concerns is Gudha's appeal in Muslim strongholds, traditionally loyal to the party. Gudha capitalised on sentiment among Muslim voters, many of whom hoped for a Muslim candidate from Congress in Jhunjhunu. "In his rallies, Gudha emphasised his and Rajput community's historical ties with Muslims, appealing to both tradition and unity," noted a local observer. His outreach also extends to SC and Rajput voters, traditionally aligned with BJP, posing a challenge to both the main parties.