Feature: In the wake of the impending Rajya Sabha elections on February 27, attention is turning toward Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, whose term in the upper house concludes on April 3. As political speculation intensifies, observers are keenly watching the unfolding dynamics surrounding Vaishnav’s next move.
The political landscape in Odisha is poised for change, with three state assembly members, including Vaishnav, completing their Rajya Sabha tenures. While Vaishnav had garnered support from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in the previous state assembly elections, the current scenario suggests a different political alignment.
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strategy emphasizing the participation of prominent leaders in the Lok Sabha elections, the decision of whether Vaishnav will contest the direct elections and the choice of his constituency becomes crucial.
Speculation is rife that Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan might vie for the Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat, setting the stage for varied scenarios regarding Vaishnav’s candidacy. Questions persist about his chances of securing a Rajya Sabha ticket this time, with potential options including contesting from either Odisha or Rajasthan in the 2024 elections.
While the details remain uncertain, there is speculation that the BJP could position Ashwini Vaishnav as a candidate for the Parli Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan. This move is seen as a strategic one, considering the perceived safety of the Pali seat in Rajasthan compared to the Cuttack Lok Sabha seat in Odisha.
The political discourse gains momentum with Vaishnav’s frequent visits to Cuttack, adding intrigue to the unfolding narrative. The coming weeks are anticipated to bring clarity to Vaishnav’s political trajectory, shedding light on the BJP’s election strategy and the minister’s role in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
