By Anish Singh
(Rptng, correcting typos throughout)
Jaipur, Nov 17 (UNI) The Pink City of Jaipur is expected to witness a tough battle between the ruling BJP and the Congress in the Rajasthan assembly elections with the local public, while being dissatisfied with Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's performance, seem satisfied with the work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre.
While expressing their disgruntlement over the performance of Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, people in the Pink City, especially in the urban areas, are happy with the work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The NDA Government's demonetisation policy and its implementation of the Goods and services tax may have evoked criticism from across the country but the city-based business community do not see any impact of these issues in the assembly polls.
In Chandipole , which is famous as a wholesale bangles selling hub, local traders, on being asked about impact of government’s policies, including big-bang reforms like GST and noteban, said, “Initially, we had issues with GST and high value currency ban but with times, it all settled. Most of us have forgotten about it. Now, our businesses are running as usual.”
While admitting that the Congress has a good chance of comeback in the state, the traders did not rule out Vasundhara Raje returning as the chief minister.
As one talks to people from different section of the society in the Pink City, it is clear that they are a bit unhappy with Ms Raje’s performances. However, at the same time, they seem quite satisfied with Prime Minister’s style of functioning.
They are of the view that he doesn’t listen to anti-developmental people and is also not giving any space for corruption to flourish.
“He has contained corruption in the country. We do not get to hear any major graft issues after he rose to the top position,' a local trader said.
An auto-driver, who is ferrying passengers since a decade said, “He (Modi) has done a lot in the information and technology sector. Now, we can see who the driver is coming to pick you (passenger).”
He was perhaps referring to transport aggregator that include Ola and Uber in which profile picture is inserted and can be seen while booking the cab.
However, there were people who were disgruntled with all the political parties.
“Whoever comes in power, they will do nothing,' a local said.
The state goes to vote on December 7 while the result will be declared on December 11.
The battle for Rajasthan is significant for both the national parties as it is being considered as “Semi final” for 2019 general elections.
UNI ASH AR 1720/1752