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ARINDAM GANGULY, OP Nuapada: In every election, beyond the banners of major political parties, there stand individuals who contest not for ideology or symbols, but for conviction. Independent candidates, often dismissed as long shots, quietly play an influential role in shaping democratic outcomes across India. In constituencies like Nuapada, their presence is nothing new. Late Rajendra Dholakia, a towering figure in the region’s political landscape, began his journey as an independent candidate and went on to win his first election in 2004 without the backing of any party. His victory was a testament to personal credibility and grassroots connection, proof that genuine public trust can outweigh party machinery. After joining BJD, he won thrice from the constituency, leaving behind a legacy of accessibility and public service that still resonates in the district. This time, as Nuapada votes in a crucial byelection November 11, the poll paper tells its own story -14 candidates, including eight independents, are in the fray. Their participation underscores growing public disillusionment with traditional party politics and a desire for more grounded, people-centric leadership. Among them is Hemant Tandi, an advocate who decided to contest after decades of observing political stagnation. “For the last 35 years, I have seen people and their parties come and go without doing anything. Farmers don’t get help, water scarcity continues, and joblessness remains. That motivated me to fight this election for my right and for the people’s right,” Tandi said. He added sharply, “If you stay in power for long, you become corrupt — and that’s what has happened. BJP, BJD, and Congress are all the same — giving promises but doing nothing.” While many independents are contesting to bring change, some have taken a different path. Bhakta Bandhu Dharua, a noted tribal leader known for his work with kendu leaf workers, recently announced his moral support for BJP candidate Jay Dholakia. Dharua made the declaration in the presence of BJP Odisha in-charge Vijaypal Singh Tomar and senior leader Lata Usendi, expressing his belief that his community’s interests align with Dholakia’s agenda. However, not all independents agree with such alignments. Ashraya Mahananda, another independent candidate in the fray, voiced his disappointment. “This doesn’t help our cause. People like us are fighting honestly to raise real issues, but when some independents start aligning with parties, it creates a bad image for genuine candidates,” he said. Mahananda believes that development has largely benefited politicians, not the public. “Development is happening for the benefit of politicians, not for people. But there are still good people in society, and with that hope, I’m fighting this battle,” he added. Confident in his independence, Mahananda said, “As an educated and independent candidate, you can do a lot on your own; you don’t need a party to serve the people.” Earlier, Mahananda had also contested from Birmaharajpur and Rairakhol. Political analyst Naba Kishore Pujari said such independent voices, even when they don’t secure victory, can shape narratives and influence vote margins, forcing major parties to address local concerns like irrigation, jobs, and healthcare. Beyond numbers, their presence embodies the spirit of representation, a reminder that democracy belongs not to political parties, but to the people themselves.
