Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has declined to contest in the Lok Sabha elections, expressing his preference to engage in widespread campaigning across the state. He stated, “I am a legislator, and I want to travel extensively across the state for promotion. I believe it would be better if I am entrusted with this responsibility.” It is noteworthy that the proposal for Bhupesh Baghel’s candidacy was put forth by former minister Mohammad Akbar.
During the screening committee meeting on Friday, Akbar had proposed Baghel’s name for the Rajnandgaon constituency. All legislators from the Rajnandgaon Lok Sabha area supported this proposal. According to party sources, Baghel has received the green signal from the Delhi headquarters to contest in the elections. The committee meeting, chaired by Rajni Patil, saw the presence of committee members Sachin Pilot (Congress in-charge for the state), former CM Bhupesh Baghel, PCC President Deepak Baij, and others.
The Congress party is conducting consecutive meetings regarding Lok Sabha elections. Senior leaders have been proposed to contest in various constituencies. In this context, the proposal includes Bhupesh Baghel contesting from Rajnandgaon, Tamradhwaj Sahu from Mahasamund, Mohan Markam from Kanker, Shiv Dahariya from Janjgir, Jyotsna Mahant from Korba, and Deepak Baij from Bastar. However, Bhupesh Baghel has declined to enter the electoral fray.
It is essential to note that the party is actively strategizing and considering strong contenders for key constituencies. While the names have been proposed, the final decision rests on the willingness of the leaders to contest. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections are anticipated to be crucial, and the Congress party is meticulously working on its candidate selection process to ensure a formidable representation.
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