In the bipolar electoral scene of Uttarakhand where the BJP and Congress call the shots, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are trying to project themselves as a strong third alternative. The leaders of both these parties are confidant that in the ensuing general elections they will surprise the political pundits of the state with a very good show.
The BSP is able to establish its party network in Uttarakhand and is increasing its vote share in every election. The party, which got 6.77 per cent votes in the 2004 general elections, increased its voting share to 15.29 per cent in the 2009 elections, but still failed to open its account in the State.
This time the party has played minority card as it nominated Hazi Mohammad Islam from Haridwar and an ex Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer laique Ahmed form Nainital lok Sabha seat.
In Haridwar the minority and dalits constitute about 45 per cent of the electorate while in Nainital too these communities are almost 40 per cent of the total votes. The State president of BSP Meghraj Singh said that the people of the State were feeling cheated by both BJP and Congress and only BSP is able to provide a viable third alternative here.
He said that the party was giving a tough fight to both BJP and Congress in the state. The fledgling AAP which is testing the electoral waters for the first time in the State is also hoping to put a good show in the state. The party is banking on image of its founder Arivind Kejriwal and his war against corruption to garner votes.
The party is also hoping that the image of an upright women police officer would help Kanchan Choudhary in Haridwar. AAP is also banking on the personal charisma of noted poet B S Cheema in Nainital, and Anup Nautiyal in Tehri. The State Convener of AAP HC Arya who himself is contesting from Almora lok Sabha constituency told The Pioneer that the party candidates are getting very good response from the public and claimed that an undercurrent in favour of party is circulating in the State.