As the Chhattisgarh assembly elections draw near, the Congress party has made its first significant move by revealing the initial list of 30 candidates who will be contesting in the polls.

The list includes prominent names, with Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel slated to contest from Patan and Deputy Chief Minister TS Singh Deo from Ambikapur. This strategic lineup showcases the Congress party’s commitment to its electoral prospects in the state.

Congress releases a list of 30 candidates for the upcoming election in Chhattisgarh

CM Bhupesh Baghel to contest from Patan, Deputy CM TS Singh Deo from Ambikapur pic.twitter.com/GYwidZZZis

— ANI (@ANI) October 15, 2023

Key Candidate Highlights:

1. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel: Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has been nominated as the Congress candidate from Patan, reaffirming his pivotal role in the upcoming elections. Baghel’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the party’s fortunes.
2. Deputy Chief Minister TS Singh Deo: Deputy Chief Minister TS Singh Deo has been fielded from Ambikapur, showcasing the party’s trust in his capabilities as a leader and a representative.
3. Vikram Mandavi: Vikram Mandavi has been selected as the candidate from Bijapur, a region that plays a crucial role in Chhattisgarh’s political landscape.
4. Lakheshwar Baghel: Lakheshwar Baghel’s nomination from Bastar reflects the party’s strategic choices in various regions of Chhattisgarh.
5. Deepak Baiji: Deepak Baiji’s candidacy from Chitrakot underscores the party’s commitment to representing a diverse array of constituencies.
6. K Chavindra Karma Dantewada: K Chavindra Karma Dantewada’s candidacy is a significant step towards ensuring representation and inclusivity in the state’s electoral process.
7. Taradhwaj Sahu: Congress leader Taradhwaj Sahu is set to contest from Durg (Rural), contributing to the party’s lineup with his leadership.
8. Ravindra Choubey: Ravindra Choubey will be the Congress candidate from Nawagarh, adding to the party’s diverse array of candidates.
9. Yashoda Verma: Yashoda Verma has been nominated as the candidate from Khairagarh, reinforcing the party’s commitment to representation.

Election Timeline:

The Chhattisgarh assembly elections will unfold in two phases, with the first round of voting scheduled for November 7, followed by the second round on November 17. The results will be officially declared on December 3, marking a crucial milestone in the state’s political landscape.

Congress’ Past Success:

In the 2018 elections, the Congress party secured 68 out of Chhattisgarh’s 90 assembly seats, marking a historic moment as they formed the state’s government for the first time since its creation in 2000. The Congress aims to replicate its success in the upcoming assembly elections, emphasizing its outreach to backward classes and welfare initiatives.

Opposition’s Strategy:

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has already unveiled two lists of candidates, naming 85 contenders. Their campaign focuses on allegations of corruption against the Congress government, which has been under the scrutiny of central agencies over the past three years. These investigations encompass various aspects, including coal distribution, excise policies, cow dung procurement, and state Public Service Commission admissions.

The unveiling of the Congress party’s initial list of candidates signifies the beginning of an intense electoral battle in Chhattisgarh. With seasoned leaders and a diverse representation, the Congress is determined to secure a strong position in the upcoming elections, setting the stage for a closely watched political contest.