Assembly Elections in five States: “Do or die” for Congress

Hyderabad: Recently, Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into force in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Mizoram after the announcement of Assembly Elections in the States.

These elections can be considered as a semifinal for 2019 General Elections. Both BJP and Congress are putting all their efforts to win these elections. However, it is a ‘do or die’ situation for Congress party. These elections are the opportunity for Congress to prove itself.

If Congress fails to win MP and Chhattisgarh, even the victory in Rajasthan might send a negative signal that the party is still weak.

It may be mentioned that farmers’ distress in MP and left extremists in Chhattisgarh pose challenges to the governments.

Rajasthan:

Congress is able to build a positive environment for the party. This happened due to the right decision taken at the right time. Mr. Sachin Pilot got the responsibility of Rajasthan Congress in 2014 itself. He built atmosphere favourable for Congress. The most important thing is that there is a unity among the young and old leaders of Congress in Rajasthan. Mr. Ashok Gehlot who is popular in Rural Rajasthan and Mr. Pilot had worked together to uplift Congress in the State.

Madhya Pradesh:

The strategy which was exhibited in Rajasthan was not followed in Madhya Pradesh. Congress did not follow the strategy followed in Rajasthan. Jyotiraditya Scindia was not sent earlier in MP. The State has 15% Dalit population. Thus, Mayawati may play an important role in the State.

Telangana:

In Telangana too, Congress is struggling hard to come to power. The party is trying to highlight the unfulfilled promises made by the ruling party.

It may be mentioned that TRS party had promised to give 12% reservations to Muslims within four months of assuming power in the State.

Given the diverse political situations in these states, it is important for Congress to win these elections to prove that it is not a weak player for 2019 General Election. It is a “do or die” situation for Congress.

It may be noted that the counting of votes in all the states will be done on December 11.