‘BJP’s hyper-nationalism, separatism plank of BTP will not help tribals’

Three-time Congress MP from Banswara Tarachand Bhagora knows tricks of the trade. Bhagora, who had last contested LS elections in 2009, mostly travels in an ordinary car or jeep in the interior villages holding about four to five rallies a day. In his addresses he makes it a point to mention the visits of Gandhi family members to the region to underline his influence in the party.But now, he needs their presence more frequently as he tries to attract youths to his rallies. His poll promises include re-opening of closed schools, a bigger share of Mahi dam water to locals and hospitals at all gram panchayats.
You have been elected three times as MP from Banswara. How would you describe your performance?
I have been serving this constituency past 25 years and have represented it for three full terms as MP. It would not be an exaggeration to say that it was because of my efforts that Ratlam-Dungarpur via Banswara rail line came into existence, a medical college was set up and a four-lane road became a reality. People have seen me struggle and fight for them fearlessly and tirelessly.
What are the issues that the sitting MP failed to address?
The sitting MP pushed the Lok Sabha constituency back by 15 years. He couldn’t fight and get funds for the proposed railway line. Due to weak leadership, Rajasthan has lost the claim over Mahi dam water. During his tenure, no attention was paid to bring development to the tribal notified areas. Lakhs of people were denied land deeds under the Forest Right Act-2005.
What are the challenges you face?
My biggest challenge is to expose
the hidden tie-up between BJP and BTP. Both have divided the society on caste, creed and religious lines. BJP has brought hyper-nationalism to its politics while BTP is playing separatism card. There is nothing that will benefit the tribal people and they are working against the spirit of the Constitution. My aim is to restore people’s faith in democracy which doesn’t discriminate people.
Will the results of Vidhan Sabha polls help your prospects?
Definitely. People of the tribal belt have rejected the BJP brand of politics. Their politics revolves around Ram temple, Article 370 and spreading hatred. The same people will again vote for Congress. CM Ashok Gehlot and deputy CM Sachin Pilot have started delivering on all poll promises. The demonstration of good governance by the state government in 100 days will script a historic win for Congress in the LS polls as well.