Vadodra district BJP and Congress

The predominantly tribal constituency in Vadodra district is all set to witness an interesting battle with the BJP nominating a person who is accused in several cases in the post-Godhra riots to fight Congress strongman who lost last time from here.
Located around 220 km from Ahmedabad, this central Gujarat seat was considered as the fortress of Congressman Mohansinh Rathwa, the former state forest minister who won six times in a row until his loss in 2002 to BJP's Vechat Baria.
But the BJP denied Baria a ticket this time and staked its cards on Jayanti Rathwa, who apparently led mobs against Muslims in the 2002 riots.
The BJP is banking heavily on the Van Bandhu Kalyan Yojna, an initiative which promises huge allocation of funds for tribal welfare as announced by Chief Minister Narendra Modi this year.
But Mohansinh continues to be a powerful tribal figure and was instrumental in gathering huge crowds for several rallies addressed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi.
"We know him well and he is always accessible. He interacts with everyone and takes active part in village functions and even cremations," says Hiralal, a tea vendor.
While both Congress and BJP have started door-to-door campaigns, the poll fever will catch on only after December 6 when public rallies would be held thereafter.


Courtesy:timesofindia.com
Complete artical HERE