With polling scheduled for April 19 in Madhya Pradesh, one of the most debated and discussed constituencies remains Chhindwara. For over 45 years now, Kamal Nath has constantly won the elections here, converting the region into his bastion. Even after the emergency days, Nath managed to retain his seat from Chhindwara. The BJP has been giving it all to win this constituency, from the top brass of the party leaders to local workers, they are reeling day and night to unfurl the party’s flag here and hand over all 29 seats from the state to PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat mission. The battle in Chhidwara is between, Nakul Nath, son of Kamal Nath and the BJP’s Vivek Bunty Sahu.
In an exclusive interview with Organiser Digital Correspondent Subhi Vishwakarma, BJP’s candidate Vivek Bunty Sahu talked in length about his vision for Chhindwara and PM Modi’s initiatives. He said, “Kamal Nath’s terror and money power won’t get him to power this time”.
Before we delve into this interview, could you share some insights into your political journey and family background? Are there any other politicians in your family?
Certainly, my grandfather was actively involved with the Jana Sangh and served as a councillor in the region. Inspired by his legacy, I ventured into politics and eventually joined the BJP.
Before the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, you have contested against Kamal Nath twice in the assembly elections, albeit without success. However, the margin of defeat does not reflect Kamal Nath’s stature. How confident are you feeling this time around?
This is not just a battle for my dignity, but also a struggle against the influence of mafia and financial power. Chhindwara is home to a significant 38 per cent of innocent tribes, whom Kamal Nath has exploited through false claims and promises. In both previous elections where I faced defeat, Kamal Nath held the position of CM, essentially pitting me against the state government. Despite this, his victory margin was a mere 25 thousand votes. He employed every tactic, from leveraging mafia connections to utilising financial resources, even resorting to distributing alcohol. This election seems no different, with instances like a Congress district president caught with 5 lakh rupees, daily seizures of alcohol by the police, and trucks meant for milk transportation found carrying alcohol. What kind of election environment is this?
“Kamal Nath employed every tactic, from leveraging mafia connections to utilising financial resources, even resorting to distributing alcohol”
Moreover, Congress is resorting to using journalists to smear the opposition, essentially turning into a factory of fake news. It’s disheartening for the people of Chhindwara to consider voting for someone willing to stoop so low to secure victory. While we have access to similar resources, we refuse to engage in such tactics as they go against our principles. What Kamal Nath stands for is evident to everyone, and it’s certainly not aligned with the values we uphold.
The indigenous Vanvasi community represents a significant portion of the region’s population, comprising 37 per cent. When combined with the Dalit community, this figure escalates to 42 per cent. Historically, these segments of society have been staunch supporters of the Congress party. What strategies is your party or the regional unit devising to sway these voters towards the BJP?
Chhindwara stands as a focal point for the schemes and policies initiated by the central government, with the tribal population also reaping the benefits. Those who have been overlooked will be included in due course. Presently, our tribal brethren are eager to join PM Modi’s Vijay Rath. They envision Chhindwara as a pivotal cog in this victorious chariot, propelling development and progress. Additionally, the audacity of Nakul Nath in labelling the Vanvasi community as ‘Bikau and Gaddar’ will surely be met with a response as they choose the appropriate representative.
The audacity of Nakul Nath in labelling the Vanvasi community as ‘Bikau and Gaddar’ will surely be met with a response as they choose the appropriate representative.
Previously, you mentioned the election you contested against Kamal Nath when he assumed the role of CM, where fake cases were allegedly registered against BJP workers, among other challenges. How challenging is it to compete against Kamal Nath in Chhindwara, taking all these factors into account?
We often find ourselves victimised due to the influence of money and the propaganda orchestrated by the Congress party against us. They concoct conspiracies and ensnare rising opponents who challenge their power, a tactic frequently employed by Kamal Nath.
Recently, you filed an FIR in response to a video circulating serious allegations against you. What is your response to this situation?
The Congress party initially disseminated this video and subsequently enlisted a journalist to file a complaint against me with the police, even offering him Rs 20 lakh for his cooperation. Subsequently, I had to file a counter-complaint against the distributors, leading to the removal of the video. Through this platform, I appeal to the people of Chhindwara: you have entrusted Kamal Nath with 45 years, and now his son for 5 years. It’s time to give us a chance, as only the BJP, under the leadership of PM Modi, can truly develop Chhindwara. With BJP governments at both the central and state levels, it’s time to dismantle their propaganda machinery and put an end to their corrupt practices and mafia dominance, joining PM Modi as he embarks on his third consecutive term.
If the BJP comes to power, we pledge to create job opportunities for up to 50,000 individuals
Unemployment is another pressing issue in Chhindwara. If the BJP comes to power, we pledge to create job opportunities for up to 50,000 individuals. Chhindwara is blessed with abundant natural resources, particularly in tribal regions. It’s imperative to harness this wealth and transform it into a source of employment generation. Areas like Tamia, Jarpa, and Patalkot hold immense potential to become world-class tourist destinations. Moreover, Chhindwara is rich in minerals, especially coal, with reserves sufficient for the next century. It’s essential to open new mines to capitalise on this valuable resource.
A nationwide wave of support for PM Modi is palpable, and Chhindwara is no exception. However, the recent influx of over 8000 defectors from the Congress party to the BJP has caused some discord among party workers. Could this be the reason why the BJP’s top leadership is making frequent visits to the region?
Our elders have poured their sweat and blood into building this party, and the dedicated and selfless karyakartas of the BJP are irreplaceable. However, influenced by the work and efforts of PM Modi, individuals from various political backgrounds are gravitating towards the BJP. They bring with them high expectations, and it’s important for us to honor that. A BJP worker is trained to operate under the ideology of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas.” Therefore, there is no dissent; rather, BJP workers are tirelessly dedicating themselves day and night to excel in the elections.
While the Congress receives criticism for not accepting the invitation to the Ram Mandir event, Kamal Nath seems to evade this scrutiny. Despite this, he identifies as a devotee of Hanuman and has erected a large statue of Hanumanji, besides sending shilas for the Ram Mandir. Does this indicate a potential contest centred around the Ram Mandir in this election?
No, I simply want to pose one question to Kamal Nath ji: “Where were you on January 22, and why did you not join thousands of people in Ayodhya?” He is doing nothing but exploiting the trust of the people of Chhindwara. If he were truly a devotee of Hanuman, he would have visited Ayodhya.
So, do you expect to win all 29 seats this time?
Yes, absolutely. We are confident of a clean sweep, securing all 29 seats in Madhya Pradesh.
