As the Lok Sabha elections approach, the BJP has announced candidates for 15 seats in Rajasthan in its first list. Meanwhile, Independent MLA Dr. Ritu Banawat has made a significant announcement regarding the Bharatpur constituency, causing a stir for the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Ritu Banawat and BJP’s Tensions
Independent legislator Ritu Banawat, known for her opposition to the BJP, has declared her candidacy for the Bharatpur Lok Sabha seat. Having previously won elections against the BJP in the state assembly, Banawat poses a potential challenge to the BJP’s chosen candidate, Ramswaroop Koli.
History of Opposition
This is not the first time Ritu Banawat has opted to contest as an independent against the BJP. In the past, due to dissatisfaction with the BJP ticket distribution, she contested assembly elections independently and emerged victorious. In the 2023 assembly elections, the BJP had nominated Banawat, but she won as an independent candidate.
Preparations and Public Engagement
In response to the BJP’s decision to field Ramswaroop Koli in Bharatpur, Ritu Banawat has initiated preparations for her electoral campaign. She recently conducted a meeting with her supporters to discuss her decision to contest as an independent in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. During the meeting, Banawat expressed her dissatisfaction with the BJP and Congress for neglecting the development of Bharatpur, resulting in the constituency lagging behind.
Challenges Faced by Bharatpur
Banawat highlighted the challenges faced by Bharatpur, including issues with NCR (National Capital Region) notifications affecting the region’s industrial sector. The stone crushing industry, brick kilns, and crusher units in Bharatpur are reportedly facing crises, leading to unemployment and economic difficulties for the residents.
Ritu Banawat’s Political History
Ritu Banawat has a history of challenging the BJP in elections. In 2013, she contested as an independent against the BJP and lost. However, in 2018, she contested on a BJP ticket but was defeated by the Congress candidate Amar Singh Jatav. In the 2023 assembly elections, Banawat won as an independent candidate, demonstrating her ability to influence local politics.
Ritu Banawat’s decision to contest as an independent candidate in the Bharatpur Lok Sabha constituency adds an interesting dimension to the upcoming elections. As she has a history of challenging the BJP and emerging victorious, her candidacy will be closely watched for its impact on the electoral dynamics in Bharatpur. The tensions between Banawat and the BJP add intrigue to the political landscape as the Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan draw nearer.