Chandbali: Even though the Congress has announced Digambar Das as its nominee for the Chandbali Assembly constituency in Bhadrak, the decision has not gone down well among scores of the party workers. Das, a native of Dhamra area, would face a tough fight against two veteran leaders like BJP’s Manmohan Samal and the BJD’s Byomkesh Ray.
Out of 15 times the elections held between 1951 and 2014 for the seat, Congress has won it 10 times.
However, after the seat was reserved for general category in 2009, the vote bank of the Congress declined significantly with multiple aspirants vying for the ticket.
The seat was represented by several Congress leaders like Brundaban Das (1951), Nanda Kishore Jena (1957), Gangadhar Das in (1971), Manmohan Das (1974), Netrananada Mallick (1980, 1985, 1995 and 2014).
It was observed that the party has been facing infighting for tickets since 2009. This time, it has become a challenge for the party nominee.
It was said that the state leadership, fearing revolt by rebels, had delayed announcement of the nominee.
The party’s choice for Digambar has ruffled feathers of a section of workers, who are reportedly planning to quit the party.
However, Digambar downplayed the reported discontent in the party, saying all is well and they will work together.
But it remains to be seen how far he will be able to keep the flock together in coming days.