Modi govt’s unilateral policy formulation neglected Chittor farmers, says Anjana

Congress nominee Udailal Anjana argues that the BJP is using Lord Ram’s name for political gain. Talking to TOI , he says that despite two terms, BJP MP has failed to address local concerns such as water, jobs, and farmer rights.

BJP candidate is seeking votes for Ram temple, Article 370 and Sanatan dharma. What is your perspective on this?

People have understood that BJP members are using the name of Lord Ram for political gain, while Congress representatives are seen as true devotees. Despite serving two terms, the BJP MP is criticised for lack of progress on local issues like water, jobs, infrastructure and farmers' rights. My focus remains on addressing these concerns directly impacting the community.

Congress is BAP ally in Banswara and Bagidora polls, yet BAP candidate is contesting against you. How do you see this?

BAP has blackmailed Congress, considering our policy of supporting small parties that have a better chance of defeating BJP. Our party top brass extended support to BAP candidate Rajkumar Roat in Banswara considering his reach and strong chances of defeating BJP candidate Mahendrajeet Singh Malviya. It is true that the BAP candidate in Chittorgarh is going to dent my votes in tribal areas but it would not matter much as I am making up for this from other areas.

You are promising to scrap the Union govt’s opium policy if INDIA bloc comes to power. Why?

Chittorgarh, contributing nearly 40% of the nation's opium, has a tradition spanning centuries with over 20K farming families involved in its cultivation. Since 2014, the Modi govt’s unilateral policy formulation neglected Chittor’s farmers. Revised biennially, the policy disregards farmers' welfare, fostering rampant corruption. Publicly, I have urged the Chittorgarh MP to disclose his efforts in safeguarding farmers’ rights. Under UPA-II, farmer dissent was minimal due to responsive policies. Even if the INDIA bloc falters, I will alone raise the issue in parliament and join farmers protesting in Punjab.

Chittorgarh Fort is marred by encroachments and monuments lying in ruins. Who is responsible? The fort’s responsibility lies entirely with the Centre govt as it falls under the Archaeological Survey of India. The state's previous Congress govt made sincere efforts to tackle the challenges but encountered lack of cooperation from the Centre. Former Congress MP Girija Vyas not only highlighted the issues but also secured necessary funds and initiatives for the fort's enhancement. I can assure you that if elected, I would transform the fort and create livelihood opportunities for locals.
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