Raipur: Today marks the deadline for candidate withdrawals ahead of the Assembly elections. Both the BJP and Congress are actively pursuing candidates in constituencies within the district to step down from the electoral race after their nomination papers have been scrutinised. After this scrutiny process, there are a total of 116 candidates remaining across six constituencies; Bilaspur, Bilha, Beltara, Takhtpur, Kota and Masturi. Out of these 116 candidates, 44 are running as independents. Once the withdrawal process is completed, we will have a picture of which candidates will contest in the elections.
Among these six constituencies, Masturi is unique as it has no candidate vying for election. On the other hand, Beltara has several independent contenders, with 14 individuals stepping forward independently. In the Beltara constituency specifically, out of 24 candidates in contention, more than half are running as independents. Similarly, in the Bilaspur constituency, out of 21 hopefuls, approximately 11 are candidates.
In the Kota constituency, out of a pool of 18 individuals competing for office seats 8 are running independently, while Takhtpur has four candidates, among its fifteen contenders.
The final day for withdrawing nominations plays a role in determining the list of candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections. Both major political parties strive to strengthen their backing and minimise candidate competition.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has questioned the deployment of what he deems as “excess” CRPF personnel in the state ahead of the assembly elections. He has urged the Election Commission to scrutinise the vehicles of para-military CRPF and Enforcement Directorate personnel, alleging that the BJP is attempting to distribute cash to influence voters. Baghel raised concerns about boxes filled with cash being transported in government vehicles and not being adequately checked. He called for the Election Commission to ensure transparency and investigate the matter, asserting that deploying additional CRPF companies appears unnecessary given the existing presence of CRPF personnel in the state.
Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!