Bypoll outcome to impact on MP politics

Bhopal, Mar 13 (UNI) The results of the recent bypoll to two Lok Sabha and an Assembly constituency in Madhya Pradesh are likely to have a profound impact on the future politics of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and main opposition Congress.

The hustings were believed to be a ''semifinal'' to the 2008 Vidhan Sabha election. Importantly, both parties are satisfied with their performance and are assessing the impact. Gwalior Lok Sabha seat and Udaypura Assembly seat went into the BJP's kitty while Sidhi (ST) Lok Sabha seat was won by the Congress, albeit by a margin of less than 2,000. While BJP wrested Gwalior from the Congress, it was vice versa in Sidhi.

Political observers feel that the Congress, which is embroiled in allegations of not fulfilling its role in the opposition for a considerable period and being a victim of infighting, has taken a step towards fine-tuning itself through the bypoll.

''The central leadership was keenly monitoring the outcome and is long contemplating on who should be handed the reins of next year's Assembly election,'' a senior leader of the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee told UNI.

To choose from among former Chief Minister Digvijay Singh, who claimed himself to be ''the master of every arena,'' Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Suresh Pachauri, Congress state supremo Subhash Yadav, Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Jamuna Devi, Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia and former Minister Ajay Singh is going to be no easy task for the high command.

The observers believe that Mr Ajay Singh's political stature was enhanced due to his role in the Sidhi victory and he also enjoyed Mr Digvijay Singh's support. Mr Scindia campaigned against his aunt and Gwalior's BJP nominee Yashodhara Raje Scindia, who is also Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Sports Minister. By doing so he broke a family ''tradition'' about a Scindia not canvassing against another Scindia.

By securing a vote share in excess of 70,000 in Sidhi, the Gondwana Ganatantra Party -- that has emerged as a symbol of tribal power in Mahakaushal region -- proved that it is a force to reckon with. The BJP is contemplating over forging an electoral alliance with it.

UNI