MP: Congress says party MLAs stand rock-solid behind Meenakshi Natarajan; her victory is assured!

Bhopal: Political activity has reached a fever pitch as the dates for the biennial elections to three Rajya Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh draw near. On Saturday evening, a crucial meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) was held at the party’s state headquarters, Indira Bhawan, in Bhopal. Following the meeting, the Congress adopted a firm stance, declaring that all party MLAs stand rock-solid behind Rajya Sabha candidate Meenakshi Natarajan and that her victory is certain.

Several senior leaders and MLAs—including Congress’s Madhya Pradesh in-charge Harish Chaudhary, State Congress President Jitu Patwari, and Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar—were physically present at the meeting. Meanwhile, other prominent figures, such as former Chief Minister Kamal Nath and senior leader Digvijaya Singh, joined the meeting via video conferencing (virtually), effectively quashing any speculation regarding internal discord within the party.

‘Even if the BJP fields a third candidate, we will still win’
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar stated that the atmosphere was entirely positive and united. In a statement, they said, “All Congress MLAs are united in support of Meenakshi Natarajan, who has been fielded as a candidate by Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.”

Challenging the BJP, Singhar stated that even if the ruling party fields a third candidate, the Congress will firmly retain its seat. Meanwhile, State President Jitu Patwari described Meenakshi Natarajan as a strong face of ‘Gandhian ideology.’ He noted that she has been given this opportunity to advance the causes of women’s empowerment, clean politics, and public service. According to Patwari, this election is not merely about a single seat but about upholding democratic values.

Journey from NSUI to Rajya Sabha
Upon being named the candidate, Meenakshi Natarajan expressed her gratitude to Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. Reflecting on her political journey, she mentioned that she began her career with the NSUI, the youth wing of the Congress party. Natarajan pledged to contribute with full dedication to Rahul Gandhi’s campaign aimed at protecting the Constitution, democratic institutions, and social harmony.

What is the full schedule for the Rajya Sabha elections?
– The political stage is set for the three Rajya Sabha seats from Madhya Pradesh:
– Last date for nominations: June 9, 2026.
– Date of polling: Voting is scheduled for June 18, 2026.
– BJP’s preparations: The ruling BJP has fielded its prominent leaders Tarun Chugh and Rajnish Agrawal for two seats; both filed their nomination papers on Saturday.
– Congress’s position: Meenakshi Natarajan has not yet filed her official nomination papers but is expected to submit them soon.