Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah: Uttarakhand's 1st woman MP to face challenge from independent

The first woman MP from Uttarakhand, Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah, who is also a Maharani of Tehri Garhwal, is set to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Tehri.

The BJP candidate is facing a tough battle this year, but not from Congress. Independent contestant Bobby Panwar, popular among the locals, is giving her a run for her money.

Mala's journey into politics began with her marriage to Manujendra Shah Sahib Bahadur, Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, in 1975.

She won the Tehri seat in the 15th Lok Sabha through a by-election, marking a historic moment for Uttarakhand. She has consistently secured victories in subsequent elections, solidifying her position within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Despite some concerns about accessibility, the BJP leadership continues to support her candidacy.

Her current challenger is Bobby Panwar, an independent candidate with significant support among local youth. While Mala's main opponent, Jot Singh Gunsola of the Congress, has been less active in politics, Panwar's grassroots appeal adds an interesting dynamic to the race.

The Tehri Garhwal constituency, known as the 'Rajshahi' seat due to the influence of its royal family, has traditionally been a BJP stronghold. However, Panwar's focus on youth issues and unemployment could shake up the electoral landscape.

While Mala brings experience and party backing, Panwar's grassroots support and focus on local concerns make this a closely watched battle.

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