Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh submitted his nomination for the Datia Assembly bypoll, supported by senior party members who highlighted BJP’s internal discord following the denial of a ticket to ex-minister Narottam Mishra. Senior Congress leaders, including Jitu Patwari, Umang Singhar, Digvijaya Singh, and Rajendra Bharti, accompanied Singh during the nomination process.
Singh expressed gratitude towards Congress leadership and Datia residents for their trust in him. Emphasizing the need for change despite evolving political landscapes, Singh stated that people still seek alternatives. He exuded confidence in contesting the election.
Singh criticized the ruling BJP, noting heightened dissatisfaction among party workers after Mishra’s ticket denial. He dismissed the possibility of a three-way contest, accusing the Azad Samaj Party of aiding BJP to split votes. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party announced support for the Congress candidate, aligning with the INDIA bloc’s strategy against BJP’s alleged erosion of democratic values.
The BJP nominated Ashutosh Tiwari for the bypoll, replacing Narottam Mishra, while the Azad Samaj Party fielded Damodar Yadav, setting the stage for a crucial electoral battle in Datia. The bypoll follows the disqualification of Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti on April 2 under the Representation of the People Act. Voting is scheduled for July 30, with results to be announced on August 3.
