Lok Sabha Elections 2024: How a 26-Year-Old Independent Candidate is Shaking Up Western Rajasthan's Political Landscape

Barmer- Western Rajasthan, particularly the Barmer-Jaisalmer-Balotra constituency, has emerged as a focal point in the current Lok Sabha elections, drawing attention from across the nation.

In this constituency comprising 1.9 million voters, the 700,000 Jat and 250,000 Rajput voters are deemed pivotal.

The electoral battleground here is witnessing a dynamic triangular contest, featuring prominent candidates from various political spectrums.

Representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is Kailash Chaudhary, who brings with him the backing of his party's formidable machinery and a track record of service. Challenging him is Umedaram Beniwal, carrying the Congress banner and seeking to capitalize on the party's historical support base in the region.

However, what truly adds intrigue to this electoral saga is the presence of an independent candidate, 26-year old Ravindra Singh Bhati. Ravindra, having tasted victory in the independent elections from the Shiv Assembly constituency of Barmer district, now throws his hat into the ring once again, poised to disrupt the traditional binary narrative of BJP versus Congress.

As an independent candidate, Bhati's popularity extends far beyond his home constituency. In fact, his charm and appeal have resonated across the entire country, sparking a social media sensation in recent days.

"I lack star campaigners or prominent figures. My strength lies solely in the people of the Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Balotra Lok Sabha constituency, as well as the blessings of all 36 communities", declares the confident young leader. With unwavering conviction, he asserts that victory is not just assured but guaranteed at 101 percent. Through his eloquent and incisive speeches, Bhati has ignited a fervent wave of support, posing a formidable challenge to his rivals from the political behemoths.

Bhati has captured the hearts of both young and old, earning him the endearing title of Rajasthan's new magician.

As the campaign intensifies, Bhati embarks on a strategic tour across states, traversing through Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

When he ventured to Bengaluru, a throng of eager listeners gathered to hear him speak, despite the 1800-kilometer distance from Barmer. Similarly, his popularity soared in Hyderabad, drawing crowds even before his arrival at the airport. The echo of his name reverberated for miles when he reached Surat in Gujarat.

His focus lies on engaging with migrant communities, recognizing their significance in shaping the electoral landscape.

His rallies are undeniably crowd-pullers, attracting people of all ages like a magnet. Rivals are left astonished, pondering over what makes him so immensely popular.

During his address to migrants in Surat on April 9, Ravindra Singh Bhati made a poignant statement, reflecting on his actions as an MLA and his commitment to serving the people. He countered criticisms about his limited achievements, highlighting the symbolic significance of the two hand pumps he installed in his constituency. To him, these hand pumps represent more than just infrastructure; they signify his dedication to the welfare of his constituents.

Bhati said- "Consider the humble two hand pumps I've installed — they may appear insignificant, yet they echo the plight of the Pandavas who sought but five villages, a plea ignored, sparking the flames of the Mahabharata. Had their needs been met, perhaps history might have unfolded differently."

Bhati's speeches, focused on addressing the issues of the underprivileged, particularly migrant workers outside Rajasthan, are both strategic and incisive.

In one of the rallies, he said " "Politicians may flock to Jaipur and Delhi to line their pockets, but my hands remain untainted. In our area, basic amenities like education and healthcare are scarce. People suffer without even a doctor to administer a simple injection for fever. Why do such conditions persist? Many migrants sacrifice their work and businesses to come and vote, hoping that leaders will represent their needs in Jaipur and Delhi. But what do these leaders do? They prioritize personal gain, trading favors for money. In today's political landscape, few dare to speak as candidly as I do. I challenge any leader to speak out against these entrenched political parties; if they do, I'll exit politics myself. True courage lies in those unburdened by corruption."

From Dudhoda to the Limelight: Ravindra Singh Bhati's Journey

Ravindra Bhati is a rising political figure known for his independent stance and remarkable electoral victories. Bhati, hailing from the humble village of Dudhoda in Barmer, was born into a Rajput family. Despite his modest background, his recent rallies have drawn attention not only for their size but also for questions about his property. Bhati's roots lie in a simple upbringing; his father works as a teacher, and he himself attended a government school before pursuing law studies after completing his graduation.

His journey to prominence began when he contested the 2019 student union elections at Jai Narayan Vyas University. Despite initially seeking a ticket from ABVP, the RSS-affiliated student organization, Bhati ultimately rebelled and ran as an independent candidate. His victory in these elections marked a historic moment, as he became the first independent candidate in the university's 57-year history to win the post of Student Union President.

Bhati's political trajectory took another significant turn when he rebelled against the BJP and contested the 2023 assembly elections as an independent candidate. Despite facing formidable opponents, including veteran leaders from both the BJP and Congress, Bhati emerged victorious, securing a notable win by about 4 thousand votes. His success in challenging established political parties and winning elections as an independent candidate has garnered widespread attention and acclaim, making him a notable figure in the political landscape of his constituency.