Modi wave still strong in Haridwar
HARIDWAR: The Modi wave seems to be sweeping this constituency where three-time BJP MLA and former minister Madan Kaushik is pitted against the Congress’ Brahm Swaroop Brahmachari in this election.
The Prime Minister commands a huge fan following among its constituents. They also appreciate the work done by Kaushik for the development of this constituency during his tenures. Haridwar being a Hindutva bastion is yet another factor going against the Congress candidate besides his reclusive nature, say its residents. Of the over 1.43 lakh voters in Haridwar, the majority of them are Hindus and of them 90% are Brahmins.
“The going is tough for him (Brahmachari) partly due to the Modi factor and partly owing to the sitting legislator’s popularity,” says Rakesh Sharma, 58, a trader. “By failing to resist the twin factors, the ruling Congress has given this seat to its rival on a platter.”
“It could have put up a strong fight against the saffron party had it chosen to field a strong candidate. Strangely, however, the ruling party chose a minnow in comparison,” says Sharma, referring to the “little known” Congress candidate.
Another trader Ravi Mishra feels former municipal board chairman Satpal Brahammachari would have been a better choice.
“He (Satpal) has always been on the forefront when it comes to tackling the problems facing the people of this constituency,” says the trader, recalling Satpal’s contribution when “this entire shrine town was inundated” in the 2013 flash floods.
“Satpal had personally pitched in to clear water-logged colonies of mounds of muck with a spade along with other residents,” Mishra recalls.
“This kind of public connect can only be matched by Kaushik who not only shares people’s joys and sorrows but also provides the needy with all kinds of help,” says 40-plus Sunil Sharma, an employee in a courier company.
Like other residents, Ajay Kumar, 45, a security guard, credits Kaushik for a series of development works. “From getting the kutcha streets paved with concrete and cement to strengthening the drainage system here, he has done everything.”
The Modi magic endures despite the cash crunch caused by his move to demonetise the high-value notes.