Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The BJP has released list of 136 candidates with 11 newcomers entering electoral politics. Their presence in the political landscape adds a fresh perspective to the poll battle though it remains to be seen how voters will respond to debutants. Free Press talked to a section of them to know their views.
Excerpts
Unfazed by negative comments
Kamakhya Pratap Singh, Maharajpur: I am focusing on journey and opportunity I have received with God’s grace. Our focus is to stand up for rights of people and ensure that our policies benefit everyone. We are going door-to-door. We are also active on social media. My team is posting development works carried out before 2018 in Maharajpur.
Daughter and daughter-in-law
Jyoti Deharia, Parasia: I am daughter and daughter-in-law of this area. So, I am getting lot of love from local people, they aren't making me feel as if it is my first election. I am engaging especially with Ladli Behna beneficiaries. There are coal mines in our area, which are inactive. I talked to minister who assured that they would start. I am running door-to-door campaigns too.”
Chaupals in every corner
Pankaj Tekam, Dindori: We are going door-to-door and conducting chaupals in every nook and corner of the constituency. In 40% of our constituency, there’s no proper network connectivity, and not many of our people are active on social media. Still, our campaign is making headway through social media.
Prakash Singh Uikey |
Coaching class students engaged
Prakash Singh Uikey, Pandhurna, said, “Community's overwhelming support is evident. Earlier, I used to run coaching classes, which had 500 students preparing for competitive exams. These students and local party leaders are visiting villages and campaigning for me. I am also contacting villagers, discussing their concerns and aspirations. We will commence door-to-door campaign soon.
Focus on khatiya baithak
Jaydeep Patel, Kukshi: I am receiving unwavering support from people. We are conducting extensive door-to-door campaigns with focus on khatiya baithak where we sit and interact with people directly.
Monika Batti |
Following traditional campaigning methods
Monika Batti, Amarwada: I am keeping my late father's face forward. I am focusing more on traditional methods of campaigning like chatayi bethak, a traditional practice in our village, where everyone sits on a floor and engaged in one-to-one conversation.
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