Congress Plans to Relocate Legislators Amid BJP's Unexpected Candidate in Rajya Sabha Elections
Strategic Move by Congress in Response to BJP's Candidate
In light of the BJP's surprising decision to field a third candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for June 18, Congress is contemplating relocating its legislators from Madhya Pradesh to Congress-ruled states, potentially Karnataka or Telangana, due to concerns over defections. Sources indicate that this strategy aims to maintain unity among the party's lawmakers amidst increasing competition for the third Rajya Sabha seat.
Current Legislative Dynamics in Madhya Pradesh
The Madhya Pradesh Assembly, which consists of 230 members and serves as the electoral college for the Rajya Sabha elections, currently has an effective strength of 229. To secure victory, a candidate requires 58 first-preference votes. The ruling BJP, holding 164 seats, is well-positioned to win two seats and has nominated Tarun Chugh, the party's national general secretary, and Rajneesh Agrawal, the state unit secretary.
BJP's Last-Minute Candidate Announcement
On the final day for nominations, the BJP unexpectedly announced Mahesh Kevat, the chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Fisheries Welfare Board, as its third candidate. Party insiders revealed that this decision was kept under wraps for several days and was made after consultations with the central leadership. Congress has fielded former MP Meenakshi Natarajan, and despite the complexities introduced by the BJP's new candidate, the party remains hopeful of garnering sufficient support for her victory.
Congress Legislative Party Meeting
Late on Monday night, the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) convened at the residence of opposition leader Umang Singhar to discuss the possibility of relocating legislators out of the state. An associate of the opposition leader mentioned that the proposal to move the legislators out of Madhya Pradesh until voting was discussed. According to sources, this suggestion arose following recommendations from the party's central leadership.