Murder of Karni Sena Chief: Managing Rajput sentiments a challenge for the new BJP Government
Image Source: India Public Khabar
The highly contested assembly elections in the state of Rajasthan concluded on 3rd December 2023 with the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) coming out with a full majority, as declared by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
For the past 30 years, the voters in the state have been following a trend of changing the incumbent government, post-completion of its term every five years. This time around was no exception, as the Congress was voted out of power, and the BJP secured 115 out of a total of 199 seats. The victory celebrations for BJP had just begun when the news of the murder of a Rajput leader on 5th December came to light.
The chief of the Hindu right-wing group Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena (SRRKS), Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, was shot dead by some unidentified assailants at his house in Jaipur. SRRKS emerged as a separate group following a split in Sri Rajput Karni Sena in 2015. This group, along with other Rajput groups, became famous after their protest against the 2018 film – Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s directorial “Padmavat.”
A person named Rohit Godara Kapurisar, allegedly associated with Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang, has claimed responsibility for the attack on Shri Sukhdev through a Facebook post. This incident has triggered protests across Rajasthan by the members of the Rajput community, and they have given a call to observe ‘Rajasthan Bandh’ on 6th December. Their demands include the arrest of perpetrators of this crime and swift delivery of justice.
As was anticipated, a political blame game has erupted between the Congress and BJP over this issue. While the BJP has blamed the erstwhile Congress government for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state, Congress has trained its guns on the new BJP regime that is yet to kick in. Union Minister and BJP MP from the state, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, has assured people of timely action and asserted that the new BJP government will ensure that Rajasthan becomes a crime-free state under its rule.
As the new government takes over in Rajasthan in the coming week, one thing is certain, that the challenges for the future Chief Minister have already begun. Rajputs comprise nearly 10% of Rajasthan’s population, and given the fact that the General Elections are around the corner, neither BJP nor Congress would like to let go of this opportunity to cash in some votes by showing solidarity with the Rajputs. However, the BJP, at present, has a clear edge, as it begins its state governance, with the perception of poor law and order in Rajasthan. So anything they do could only be taken as an improvement by the public. Notwithstanding, it is imperative for the new government to take concrete measures towards restoring peace and tranquility in the state.
Team Profile
- News Writer
- Anushka Pundir is a driven student currently pursuing her Masters in Business Administration (F&A) at Amity University. Anushka embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science (Hons) from Delhi University, a testament to her diverse interests. Following her undergraduate studies, she dedicated herself to the rigorous preparation for UPSC and other government exams, showcasing her commitment to public service.
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