Triangular fight looms in Dharamshala byelection as BJP rebel Chaudhary firm on contest
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Belongs to influential OBC category that has 30% of voters in constituency
Dharamshala: The upcoming byelection in Dharamshala Assembly constituency is poised for a triangular contest, with rebel BJP leader Rakesh Chaudhary throwing his hat into the ring as an independent candidate.
Chaudhary’s decision comes on the heels of the BJP nominating Sudhir Sharma, a former Congress MLA, as its candidate, setting the stage for an intriguing electoral battle.
The Congress, in a bid to consolidate its position in Dharamshala, has fielded former Mayor Devendra Singh Jaggi. However, Chaudhary’s adamancy on contesting has added a new dimension to the electoral dynamics, particularly considering his stronghold in the OBC Chaudhary community, which commands a significant vote bank in the constituency.
Chaudhary reaffirmed his decision to contest the elections last night when he took to social media to announce his resolve not to withdraw from the electoral fray. His said his “decision underscored his commitment to representing the interests of his supporters and constituents in Dharamshala”.
Having contested the 2022 Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections on the BJP ticket, Chaudhary’s decision to contest as an independent candidate marks a departure from traditional party lines.
Despite his loss to Sudhir Sharma in the previous elections, Chaudhary managed to secure a substantial number of votes, indicating his enduring appeal among voters.
The entry of Chaudhary into the electoral arena is expected to impact the vote share of both the BJP and the Congress, with the Gaddi community and the OBC community closely watching the developments. With approximately 30 per cent of the total voters in Dharamshala belonging to the Gaddi community and a similar percentage hailing from the OBC community, the support base of each candidate will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the byelection.
The Chaudhary community, in particular, had expressed its desire for representation within the Congress, threatening to field an independent candidate if their demands were not met. Chaudhary’s decision to contest independently reflects the community’s determination to assert its political influence and secure a voice in the electoral process.
As the electoral battle heats up in Dharamshala, all eyes will be on the candidates as they vie for the support of voters in a contest that promises to be closely contested and closely watched. The last date for withdrawal of nomination is May 17.
