||Black and White Digital News ||

||September 06 ,2024 ||

JAMMU: Satish Sharma, a prominent political figure in Chamb and the son of former minister Madan Lal Sharma, has demonstrated his increasing political influence by organizing a massive rally in the Chamb constituency. The event drew an impressive turnout from all segments of society, including BDC chairpersons, sarpanches, panches, and members of civil society, all of whom expressed unwavering support for Sharma. The rally was more than just a show of strength; it was a clear message to the Congress high command that the constituency demands Sharma as their candidate in the upcoming Assembly elections.

The Congress leadership finds itself in a precarious position as it has delayed the release of its candidate list, waiting for the BJP to make the first move. However, the delay has only heightened internal pressures, with Sharma’s supporters openly declaring their intention to back him as an independent candidate if the Congress fails to give him the mandate. This growing dissent among Sharma’s supporters threatens to fracture the party’s unity in Chamb, forcing the Congress to carefully weigh its decision.

The situation is further complicated by the ambitions of former Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, a senior Congress leader who has expressed interest in contesting the Chamb seat. The seat, previously reserved for Scheduled Castes, is now open to all candidates after the delimitation process. While Tara Chand was previously elected as an MLA from the SC-reserved Chamb constituency, he is now determined to contest the open seat, despite pressure to shift his focus to Akhnoor, which is now reserved for SC candidates. His insistence on running in Chamb has intensified the leadership struggle within Congress.

Sharma’s growing popularity has made him a focal point in the region’s political discourse. Known for his commitment to development and service, Sharma has established a strong rapport with his constituency. This was evident in the rally, where supporters, including influential local leaders, vowed to challenge any Congress decision that did not favor Sharma. Their message was clear: they want a leader who understands their needs and has a track record of delivering results.

The Congress high command faces a critical decision: to either side with Sharma, appeasing his growing base, or to favor Tara Chand, potentially alienating a significant section of Chamb’s voters. Given the increasing likelihood of Sharma running as an independent if denied the ticket, the party risks splitting its vote base and weakening its position in the constituency.

The BJP, too, is grappling with internal divisions. Local BJP leaders and workers in Chamb are facing similar issues, as dissent over candidate selection has caused friction within the party. As both the Congress and BJP navigate these challenges, the Chamb constituency has emerged as a high-stakes battleground, where grassroots loyalties and leadership decisions will play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the election.

For Satish Sharma, the rally was not just a show of strength but a statement of intent. His supporters made it clear that they would not settle for any other candidate. With the Congress leadership under pressure to resolve its internal conflicts, the Chamb constituency remains a hotbed of political activity, with its future hanging in the balance. Whether the Congress can navigate these turbulent waters or risks splintering over its leadership choices remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Satish Sharma has cemented his place as a formidable contender.

Tariq Hameed Karra