Odisha Elections 2024: Can independent candidates turn tables in Jatni 

The political temperature in the Jatni Assembly constituency under the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha segment is heating up with independent candidates in the fray seem determined to give the national and regional party candidates a run for their money. 

Independent Candidates creating ripples 

The candidates of the BJP, BJD and Congress vying for the Jatni seat are leaving no stone unturned to woo voters. At the same time, Md Manwar Ali and Sujit Balabantaray, who are also contesting independently, are not lagging behind. 

These two independent candidates have adopted different ways of campaigning to stand out from the crowd. 

Tractor Rally

Bike and car rallies are nothing new during election time. But Ali, who is the organiser of the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan, recently held a massive tractor rally. He didn’t stop there. He is also collecting a handful of paddy from every house.

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“If I am contesting today, it is because of the decision of the farmers of my area. While giving me a handful of paddy, farmers and women have taken a pledge that they will ensure the victory of a farmer’s son,” said Ali. 

“The 25-year-old government has done nothing for farmers. So we have taken a pledge to take the rule into our hands,” said a farmer. 

Door-to-Door Campaign

On the other hand, Balabantaray is emphasising on door-to-door visits to establish direct contact with voters. 

“We the Jatni people get nothing due to dynasty politics. If Jatni people bless me for five years, I am telling you that Jatni will witness a sea change,” said Balabantaray. 

“It is often seen that independent candidates play crucial roles in elections. They contest on the strength of people’s love and affection.

There are three to four independent candidates in the Jatni Assembly seat,” said Saroj Samal, a Jatni resident.