Headline: Shivraj Singh Chouhan Takes Proactive Approach, Sets Sights on 2024 by Targeting Kamal Nath’s Stronghold
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, following the BJP’s significant victory in Madhya Pradesh, has chosen to remain in Bhopal, diverging from his counterparts who visited Delhi in anticipation of the chief ministerial role. In a bold move on Wednesday, Chouhan is set to visit Chhindwara, a stronghold of Kamal Nath, where the BJP had previously faced defeat in all seven seats in 2018. Chouhan’s strategic maneuver indicates his readiness for the 2024 elections, aiming to seize the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat, the only one Congress secured in the state during the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Notably, the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat has been under Nath’s control since 1980.
Of particular interest is Chouhan’s statement on Tuesday, asserting that he has never considered himself a contender for the CM position and remains a dedicated “BJP worker” ready to undertake any assigned role. This declaration is perceived as a significant message within BJP circles. Additionally, Chouhan announced that funds for the Ladli Behana scheme would be disbursed on December 10, with incremental increases from Rs 1,250 to Rs 3,000 per month. Throughout his statements, Chouhan consistently expressed gratitude to the ‘ladli behanas’ for their role in delivering an unprecedented victory.
While Chouhan attributes his success to the Ladli Behana scheme and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s influence, other potential CM contenders like Prahlad Patel and Kailash Vijayvargiya downplay the scheme’s impact. Prahlad Patel credits PM Modi’s appeal and popularity for the victory, while Vijayvargiya highlights the BJP’s success in states without a similar scheme. This attempt to minimize the Ladli Behana factor is seen as an effort to diminish Chouhan’s influence.
Despite contrasting views within the BJP, supporters of Chouhan argue that it would be challenging for the party to ignore his case, especially after the BJP secured 163 seats. While other contenders met with party leadership in Delhi, Chouhan’s decision to remain in Bhopal has raised eyebrows within the BJP.
