Narottam Mishra Asks Workers to Garland BJP Candidate First During Datia By-Election Campaign
Digital Desk
An unusual moment during the Datia Assembly by-election campaign has drawn attention after senior BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Dr Narottam Mishra politely declined a ceremonial welcome and instead asked party workers to honour the BJP candidate first.
The incident took place during a campaign in Wards 6 and 7 on Friday evening, where party workers had gathered to welcome Mishra with garlands and tilak as his convoy entered the locality.
Leader Steps Aside for Candidate
As supporters moved forward to garland him, Mishra smiled and stepped back, saying, "Not now... the groom is coming behind me. Garland him instead."
His remark was directed towards BJP candidate Ashutosh Tiwari, who was following him as part of the election campaign.
Following Mishra's request, party workers shifted their attention to Tiwari and welcomed the candidate with garlands and flowers before the campaign resumed.
Campaign Moment Sparks Discussion
The gesture quickly became a talking point among party workers and local residents. While senior political leaders are typically the first to be honoured during campaign events, Mishra chose to redirect the attention towards the party's official candidate.
Several BJP supporters described the move as a reflection of organisational discipline and an effort to keep the election campaign focused on the candidate rather than senior leaders.
Different Interpretations
The incident has also generated discussion in political circles, with some observers interpreting it as a message that the party's electoral focus should remain on its candidate during the by-election campaign.
Others viewed the gesture as an example of Mishra's political style and humility. However, these remain political interpretations, and Mishra has not issued any formal statement explaining his remarks.
Campaign Intensifies Ahead of Polls
Electioneering has gathered pace in the Datia Assembly by-election, with both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress intensifying door-to-door outreach, public meetings and ward-level campaigns.
As political activity increases, campaign moments involving senior leaders continue to attract public attention alongside the broader contest for the assembly seat.
