On November 17, 2023, Madhya Pradesh is set to witness an intense electoral showdown. In the previous election, neither the Congress nor the BJP secured a majority in the 230-seat assembly. The Congress, with 114 seats, initially formed the government but later lost power due to a defection by a prominent leader and now union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. The BJP, led by Shivraj Singh Chouhan, subsequently returned to power.

In the upcoming election, the BJP is facing another formidable challenge. Their campaign promises include free ration, LPG cylinders priced at ₹450, subsidised electricity, and a financial incentive of ₹2 lakh for every girl child. On the other hand, the Congress is pledging a farm loan waiver, LPG cylinders at ₹500, 100 units of free electricity, and even the formation of an IPL cricket team.

While the battle for Madhya Pradesh is primarily a head-to-head contest between the Congress and the BJP, the presence of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Samajwadi Party (SP), and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is causing anxiety for both major parties. The BSP is contesting from all seats with allies, the SP from 80 seats, and the AAP from 69 seats.

As the election intensifies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have embarked on a campaign blitz, conducting multiple rallies. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the longest-serving chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, who has been in power since 2005 (except for a brief period in 2018 and 2019), is actively addressing 8 to 10 rallies daily. He has promised laptops to students scoring over 60% and assured that the government will cover college fees for eligible students.

The state government highlights the 'Ladli Behna' scheme, launched by the BJP eight years ago, which reportedly benefits over 1.35 crore married women in the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan which goes to polls on November 25 is known for alternating between the BJP and the Congress every five years. But the Congress, which is ruling the state, is hoping to change this trend.

Watch the accompanying video for more.

(Edited by : Sangam Singh)

First Published:Nov 13, 2023 10:01 PM IST