Both BJP and Congress have filed nominations for the Datia assembly by‑poll in Madhya Pradesh, with debutant Ashutosh Tiwari and former MLA Ghanshyam Singh as candidates. Former minister Narottam Mishra delivered an emotional rally speech supporting the BJP candidate.
Key Takeaways
- BJP fields debutant Ashutosh Tiwari
- Congress nominates former MLA Ghanshyam Singh
- Narottam Mishra gives emotional address
On July 13, 2026, both major parties filed their nomination papers for the Datia assembly by‑poll. BJP’s newcomer Ashutosh Tiwari submitted his documents at the district collector’s office in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, state BJP president Hemant Khandelwal, and senior party in‑charge Mahendra Singh.
Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh, a former MLA from neighboring Sewda, filed his nomination alongside senior leaders such as State Opposition Leader Umang Singhar and veteran MLA Phool Singh Baraiya.
The by‑poll was triggered after Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti lost his seat following a conviction in a cheating case. Bharti’s disqualification created a high‑stakes contest for both parties.
Historical Background
In the 2023 assembly elections, Rajendra Bharti defeated BJP heavyweight Narottam Mishra to win the Datia seat. Mishra, then Home Minister, had long held sway over the constituency, making the current contest a battle of prestige.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this by‑poll could serve as a litmus test for both parties ahead of the 2026 state elections, reflecting voter sentiment on recent anti‑corruption drives and the controversial Uniform Civil Code debate.
"The Datia by‑poll is a micro‑cosm of the larger national power struggle between BJP and Congress," says political analyst Dr. Ritu Sharma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When is the voting scheduled?
Answer: Voting is set for July 30, with results to be counted on August 3.
Q2: Will Narottam Mishra contest the election?
Answer: Mishra has not announced a candidacy but will actively campaign for the BJP nominee.
