Datia By-Election Heats Up as Rivals Trade Barbs

Congress stalwart Digvijaya Singh has likened BJP rival Narottam Mishra to the mythological antagonist Ravana, accusing the leader of systemic power abuse ahead of the Datia Assembly by-election. This rhetorical escalation marks a turning point in the campaign, as both parties scramble to secure dominance before the July 30 vote.

Editorial·July 13, 2026·reads: 3,448

Datia By-Election Heats Up as Rivals Trade Barbs

Singh characterized Mishra as tyrannical during a press interaction, asserting that sustained pressure from the Congress party forced the BJP to deny him a ticket for the upcoming contest. Beyond the personality clash, the campaign has been further complicated by corruption allegations leveled against Ashutosh Tiwari, the BJP candidate stepping into the vacancy.

Despite the friction, Mishra has publicly aligned himself with the party line, pledging his support for Tiwari and committing to assist Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s campaign efforts. The BJP now navigates a delicate balancing act, attempting to quell internal dissent from Mishra’s loyalists while countering the opposition's momentum. With voters heading to the polls on July 30 and results expected August 3, the race remains a volatile test of local political influence.