BJP tests arithmetic, Cong seeks to secure lone seat

The BJP’s decision to field a third candidate from Madhya Pradesh for the upcoming June 18 Rajya Sabha elections has intensified political activity in the state, prompting the Congress to take precautionary measures to safeguard its lone seat. Amid concerns over possible cross-voting, the Congress is preparing to move most of its MLAs out of the state, with Karnataka emerging as the likely destination. A few senior legislators, however, are expected to remain in Bhopal for coordination purposes.

Sources said Congress MLAs were recently summoned to the residence of Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, where a strategy was finalised to sequester legislators for around 10 days. The proposal has reportedly been sent to the party’s central leadership in Delhi for approval. While many MLAs have remained tight-lipped, some indicated they were travelling for personal reasons with their families. However, party leaders have openly acknowledged concerns over alleged pressure tactics.

Singhar asserted that Congress legislators remain united and committed to the party. He expressed confidence in the party’s candidate, Meenakshi Natarajan, stating that she would emerge victorious despite challenges.

Congress MLA Anubha Munjare alleged that party legislators have been receiving calls from BJP leaders and claimed that offers of up to Rs 5 crore were made in an attempt to influence them. However, another MLA, Nitendra Singh Rathore, dismissed such claims, stating that Congress legislators are ideologically committed and have not received any such offers.

The BJP, which holds a commanding majority in the 230-member Assembly with 164 MLAs, is aiming for a clean sweep of all three Rajya Sabha seats. The Congress, with 64 MLAs, is seeking to secure at least one seat.

A candidate requires 58 first-preference votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat. The BJP’s strength comfortably ensures victory in two seats, but it falls short by around 10 votes for the third, fuelling speculation about possible cross-voting.

The BJP has fielded national general secretary Tarun Chugh, state unit leader Rajneesh Agrawal, and Mahesh Kevat as its candidates. The inclusion of a third candidate has added a new dimension to the contest.

On the other hand, the Congress has nominated former Lok Sabha member Meenakshi Natarajan, a close associate of Rahul Gandhi, for the seat being vacated by senior leader Digvijaya Singh.

Congress leaders have accused the BJP of attempting to undermine democratic norms by fielding a third candidate despite lacking sufficient numbers on paper. The BJP, however, remains confident, with senior leaders indicating that the party’s organisational strength and outreach efforts will secure all three seats.