BJP’s big game in Datia: Narottam Mishra’s ticket canceled, is the fear of defeat over now?

The by-election to be held on Datia assembly seat of Madhya Pradesh has created a stir in the politics of the state. BJP has taken a decision which has not only shocked the political circles, but has also completely overturned all the political equations. On the seat where former Home Minister Narottam Mishra’s claim was considered confirmed, the party has surprised everyone by ignoring him and making Ashutosh Tiwari its candidate.

Nomination preparation and last minute changes If sources are to be believed, Narottam Mishra was fully prepared for the Datia by-election, he had even purchased nomination papers. Supporters were hopeful that he would once again be in the electoral fray. But when the final list of BJP was released, Narottam Mishra’s name was missing in it. By fielding local leader Ashutosh Tiwari instead, the party has made it clear that the organization’s strategy is often above the expectations of the big giants.

Who is Ashutosh Tiwari? Ashutosh Tiwari is considered a calm and organizational leader associated with the grassroots politics of Datia. Ashutosh, who has been active with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) since his student days, has understood the intricacies of the organization very closely. Presently he is the state cell in-charge of BJP. Apart from this, he has also proved his administrative abilities as the Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Housing Board from 2020 to 2023. His image is that of a leader who believes in working away from controversies.

The stakes of ‘outsider’ versus ‘local’ Political analysts believe that this time BJP has given ticket to Datia resident Ashutosh Tiwari after thinking very carefully. Actually, in the 2023 assembly elections, Narottam Mishra had to face defeat at the hands of Congress’s Rajendra Bharti. In that election, Congress had created a big issue by calling Narottam Mishra an “outsider”. Now by fielding Ashutosh, BJP has made a big effort to end that old issue of “local versus outsider”. The party wants that this time the elections should be completely focused on local issues.

Will the dream of 2023 come true now? Interestingly, Ashutosh Tiwari was eager to contest elections in the year 2023 itself. He had submitted his claim from Sevdha seat, but could not get the ticket. Now by giving an opportunity in Datia, BJP has indicated that the party is also giving preference to the workers who have worked hard in the organization for a long time.

Datia by-election is not just an election for one seat, but it is a challenge for BJP to regain its lost credibility. Will the ‘organizational face’ of Ashutosh Tiwari be able to break into the Congress stronghold? Only the election results will tell, but it is certain that BJP has definitely given a new turn to the politics of Datia.