UP CM Yogi Adityanath during a roadshow for Gujarat state election campaign at Godhra on Tuesday. Express photo by Nirmal Harindran, 29-11-2022, Panchmahal, Gujarat
The Gujarat assembly elections have kicked off, and with them, the unmistakable presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The BJP has fielded Adityanath as its candidate from the Godhra constituency, a move that is being closely watched by observers.
Adityanath’s entry into the fray comes at a time when the BJP is seeking to consolidate its hold on power in Gujarat. The party has been facing stiff opposition from the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which are hoping to capitalize on the growing discontent among the electorate.
The Godhra constituency, which has historically been a stronghold of the BJP, is seen as a crucial test for Adityanath’s political machine. The area has witnessed several high-profile incidents in recent years, including the 2002 riots, which left thousands dead and hundreds of thousands displaced.
Adityanath’s campaign in Godhra has been marked by a combination of outreach programs and aggressive campaigning. He has met with local leaders and party workers, and has also addressed several rallies in the area.
The BJP has also used its traditional tool – the ‘bulldozer’ – to quell any dissent within the party ranks. Adityanath’s presence is being seen as a warning to those who might be considering a move against him.
Despite the tough talk, Adityanath’s campaign in Godhra has been notable for its relative calmness. The BJP leader has focused on issues such as development and infrastructure, which have resonated with voters in the area.
The outcome of the elections is far from certain, but one thing is clear – Yogi Adityanath is determined to leave his mark on Gujarat politics. As he navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries within the BJP, it remains to be seen whether his presence will prove decisive for the party’s fortunes.