Businessman files independent nomination against Puri in MP Rajya Sabha bypolls

Rajkumar Lohani, a Bhopal-based businessman, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate to contest against Hardeep Singh Puri in the Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha bye-election, adding an unexpected dimension to the contest.

Puri, a senior BJP minister, was seen as the frontrunner for the vacant seat. However, Lohani's entry into the race could complicate calculations if the election proceeds to a vote.

The Congress party has claimed the backing of 10 state legislators for its position in the election. However, the party's candidacy faces uncertainty, with officials noting that the absence of a formal affidavit could result in the rejection of the nomination papers.

Rajya Sabha bye-elections in Madhya Pradesh have often witnessed competitive contests between national parties and independent candidates. The outcome of this election will depend on the final list of valid nominations and the voting strength each candidate can muster among the state assembly members eligible to participate.