Divya Gautam: Sushant Singh Rajput’s Cousin Enters Bihar Assembly Race
In a significant political development, Divya Gautam, the cousin of the late Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput, has officially entered the political arena by filing her nomination as a candidate for the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist)-Liberation (CPI(ML)-L) in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. Gautam, 34, is contesting from the Digha assembly constituency in Patna, a seat currently held by BJP‘s Sanjeev Chaurasiya since 2015.
A New Face in Bihar Politics
Gautam’s candidacy was announced as part of a broader strategy by the CPI(ML) to field 18 candidates in the elections. This move is part of the opposition coalition known as the Mahaghathbandhan, which includes prominent parties like the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Indian National Congress. However, the coalition is still in the process of finalizing its seat-sharing arrangements, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI).
The deadline for filing nominations for the first phase of polling, which covers 121 seats, is set for October 17. Despite the uncertainty surrounding seat allocations, Gautam expressed her commitment to her party’s directive, stating, “Please ask my leaders about the seat-sharing. My party asked me to file a nomination from Digha, and I did.”
Who is Divya Gautam?
Divya Gautam is not just a political newcomer; she has a rich background in student activism. A former leader of the All India Students’ Association (AISA), she has been actively involved in social service initiatives and has a long-standing association with the CPI(ML). Her political journey began during her student days when she contested the Patna University Students’ Union election in 2012 as an AISA candidate. Although she narrowly lost to the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) candidate Ashish Sinha, she described the experience as transformative, highlighting the influence of “money, power, and negative mobilization” on electoral outcomes.
Gautam holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from Patna College, along with a postgraduate degree in the same field. Her academic credentials are complemented by her professional experience; she served as an assistant professor at Patna Women’s College from 2011 to 2014. Notably, she also cleared the Bihar Public Service Commission examination in 2021 but chose to decline a government position as a supply inspector, opting instead to pursue a political career.
Cultural Ties to Sushant Singh Rajput
While discussing her familial connection to Sushant Singh Rajput, Gautam acknowledged that their ideological paths may not align perfectly. However, she emphasized a cultural bond that ties them together. This connection has drawn public interest, especially given the media frenzy surrounding Rajput’s untimely death in 2020, which sparked widespread discussions about mental health, nepotism, and the pressures of the film industry.
The Political Landscape in Bihar
Bihar’s political landscape is complex and often characterized by shifting alliances and coalitions. The Mahaghathbandhan, which aims to present a united front against the ruling BJP, has been a significant player in the state’s politics since its formation. The coalition’s ability to finalize seat-sharing agreements will be crucial in determining its success in the upcoming elections.
The Digha constituency, where Gautam is contesting, has been a stronghold for the BJP, making her candidacy a challenging yet intriguing prospect. The BJP’s dominance in Bihar has been attributed to various factors, including its organizational strength and the appeal of its leadership. However, the CPI(ML) has historically garnered support from marginalized communities, and Gautam’s grassroots activism may resonate with voters seeking change.
A Shift in Political Dynamics
Gautam’s entry into the political fray reflects a broader trend of young leaders emerging from diverse backgrounds, seeking to challenge established political norms. Her candidacy may inspire other young activists to engage in politics, particularly in a state like Bihar, where youth representation has often been lacking.
As the election date approaches, the focus will shift to how effectively Gautam can mobilize support and articulate her vision for the Digha constituency. Her background in social service and student activism may provide her with the tools needed to connect with voters on pressing issues such as education, employment, and social justice.
Conclusion
Divya Gautam’s nomination as a CPI(ML) candidate for the Bihar assembly elections marks a significant moment in both her personal journey and the political landscape of the state. As she steps into the spotlight, her connection to Sushant Singh Rajput adds an intriguing layer to her candidacy, drawing public interest and media attention. With the elections fast approaching, all eyes will be on Gautam as she navigates the complexities of Bihar politics, aiming to make her mark in a challenging electoral environment.
