Himachal Pradesh Elections Taking a Local Turn

The upcoming elections in Himachal Pradesh are shaping up differently from those in other states, with a focus on local issues taking precedence over national agendas.

While opinions on parliamentary and assembly by-polls in the state are yet to be fully expressed, it's becoming evident that local concerns are influencing the political landscape in Himachal.

Across the country, the BJP-led central government's achievements, Modi's strong leadership, and the promotion of nationalism are dominating the campaign rhetoric.

Initiatives such as the construction of the Ram temple and the abrogation of Article 370 are being touted as significant accomplishments.

Initially, it seemed that in Himachal too, the BJP would highlight the achievements of the central government and the guarantees of the state government.

However, recent events, including the rebellion of six Congress MLAs during the Rajya Sabha elections, leading to their expulsion from the assembly, have introduced a new dimension to the state's politics.

With the announcement of by-polls on six seats, three independent MLAs have also submitted their resignations to the Speaker, expressing their desire for by-polls in their constituencies.

This sequence of events has transformed the political landscape and election issues in Himachal.

As the elections draw closer, both national parties have refrained from taking a definitive stance on Himachal's direction.

So far, only the activity of regional leadership is noticeable.

The BJP appears to have an edge in campaign outreach and candidate selection, but the Congress, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's leadership, is setting the election agenda.

Sukhu has raised serious questions about the actions of the rebel MLAs and independents, accusing them of engaging in deals and offering protection to defectors. Some MLAs have issued legal notices to the Chief Minister for damage control.

These allegations and counter-allegations are the talk of the town, with the Congress accusing the BJP of fielding defectors in the elections, creating a defensive situation.

This campaigning tactic by Congress has stirred dissatisfaction among BJP workers, who are unhappy with the party's decision to field these "outsiders."

BJP strategists are now busy formulating a strategy to appease disgruntled workers and suppress open rebellion.

However, simmering discontent remains.

Reports suggest that Congress is considering fielding some of its MLAs in the elections, indicating a growing confidence in the face of BJP workers' discontent.

It will be interesting to see which issues dominate the final phase of the elections and how they impact the outcome.

For now, it's a wait-and-watch situation.