JUNAGARH: Amidst the breathtaking natural vistas and modern amenities lies the heritage city of Junagadh, at the foot of the Girnar hills and near the renowned Gir National Park, home to majestic Asian lions. The New Indian team walks through its streets, with a clear mission, to discern the true electoral powerhouse among the contenders.
Riti Bara, a local student, succinctly captures the prevailing sentiment, stating, “The BJP has spearheaded the most development efforts here. Our heritage sites are well-maintained, and Junagadh boasts of pristine natural surroundings. Cleanliness is also a hallmark of this city.”
Sharing a similar sentiment, another youth named Prithvi highlights the BJP government’s commendable initiative in constructing a ropeway at Girnar, facilitating safe and convenient access for those unable to climb the arduous 10,000 steps. He also emphasizes the allure of the city’s diverse outlets and attractions.
However, amidst the support for the BJP, there exists a discernible divide among the populace regarding the city’s development trajectory. Vipin Jethwa predicts Modi’s victory in Junagadh, attributing it to the significant strides made in infrastructural development, particularly in road construction and bypasses.
Contrastingly, a dissenting voice interjects, questioning the veracity of the purported development. “What kind of development did happen? During the rainy season, the road is broken and faces many potholes. My wife also faced an accident because of that. The municipal corporation is in the hands of BJP and questions if they want to vote only on the name of Ram Mandir,” asks a local.
With the debate intensifying as the electorate grapples with conflicting narratives some voices also favour Congress, demanding change. Teerth said, “This time, in Junagadh, congress may come, people want change, we face the issues during the rainy season because of the water overflow.”
Haresh Chawda, an agriculture officer, adds, “BJP did not do what they were supposed to. Everything is working in the name of Modi. Our MP did not even visit here 10 times in 10 years.”
The local mango sellers, who bring a variety of Kesar mangoes, seemed to be divided in their democratic choices, between the BJP and Congress. Aslam, from the Muslim community, chooses Rahul Gandhi over Modi while Ramesh Bhai Makwana chooses BJP.
Aslam said, “The MP should be from BJP and Rahul Gandhi should be the next prime minister, half of the Muslim vote here is for BJP rest is for Congress.” Makwana exclaims, “Modi is there, the real lion is Modi, he will win, he brought the bypass highway.”
Against the backdrop of the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, where BJP’s Chudasama Rajeshbhai Naranbhai Chudasama clinched victory against INC’s Vansh Punjabhai Bhimabhai, the stage is set for yet another electrifying contest. This time, the incumbent Rajeshbhai from BJP faces off against Hirabhai Jotwa from INC.