Rajendra Bhandari, who had carved out a significant niche for himself in Uttarakhand’s political landscape, has suffered an unexpected setback in the recent by-elections. Known as one of the most influential leaders in Chamoli district, Bhandari’s defeat comes as a surprise. His political future now stands in question.
Having risen from student politics to prominence in the state assembly, Bhandari was synonymous with Congress in the Badrinath constituency. There was a time when Congress meant Bhandari and Bhandari meant Congress. This was evident even in the 2022 elections, where despite BJP’s overwhelming victory in the state, Rajendra Bhandari not only won from Badrinath but it was the sole constituency among the 14 in Garhwal parliamentary seat where BJP faced defeat.
People voted for Bhandari’s name. However, this time Congress sidelined Bhandari, shattering his charisma. Now, questions loom over his future political strategies. One thing is certain—his party switch has significantly diminished Bhandari’s brand value in Chamoli district.
Successful Veterans in Booth Protection
Apart from the results of the Badrinath assembly elections, all the veterans successfully protected their booths. Rajendra Bhandari secured 169 votes in his booth Nael Etha, while Congress managed only 56 votes. Meanwhile, BJP Pradesh Adhyaksha and Rajya Sabha MP Mahendra Bhatt received 76 votes in his booth Brahmanthala, whereas Congress managed just 36 votes. Congress’ Lakhpat Butola also made good progress in his booth in Chaundi village, securing 227 votes compared to BJP’s 101 votes.
BJP’s Defeat in Maana Booth
Even in the country’s first village, Maana, BJP had to face defeat. Congress received 184 votes here while BJP had to be content with just 44 votes. Maana’s result is significant because Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given it the tag of the first village of the country instead of the last. Modi’s name brought Maana into the limelight globally, but BJP’s minimal votes here send a clear message that the public has rejected party-switching.
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