David vs Goliath: Underdogs brave political battlefield

In the diverse landscape of Indian politics , where established figures often dominate the discourse, Gujarat presents a compelling narrative of grassroots activism and individual determination. Amidst the cacophony of big names and powerful parties, a handful of candidates emerge not for their political lineage or financial prowess but for their unwavering resolve and personal narratives that propel them into the electoral arena.

One such figure is Suman Khushwah , a resident of Kamrej in Surat, embroiled in a battle of alleged extortion and false accusations. Determined to clear her name and become a part of the system, she contested the 2022 assembly polls and is now in the fray from Navsari, Surat’s neighbouring district, where she faces formidable opponents, including Gujarat BJP chief C R Paatil.

Suman’s journey is a quest for justice.

“I am a tiny person compared to the political giants and bigwigs. But I want to prove that I was innocent and framed.

I have no poll promises to offer.

I am just trying to convey that a lone woman can also become a power symbol,” says the 35-year-old, who runs a beauty parlour.

In Navsari, Suman is joinedby Nisar Shaikh, a 46-year-old automobile mechanic who runs a garage in the Udhna area of Surat. Shaikh’s motivation stems from a desire to address the civic issues plaguing the underprivileged communities he serves.

“Poor people in Surat suffer due to irregular water supply and improper drainage. No candidate raises these issues in their campaigns. This propelled me to enter the fray,” he explains.

Vedu Sirasat, a 50-year-old autorickshaw driver from Amraiwadi in Ahmedabad, has been con-testing elections since 2009. He is driven by a mission to amplify the voices of fellow rickshaw drivers. “I felt that people like me are ignored in society and decided to fight the polls to become a voice for autorickshaw drivers,” he says before rushing off to attend an election rally.


In contrast, Mahesh Thakor, a 43-yearold taxi driver from Ghatlodia in Ahmedabad, is contesting the polls for a different reason. “I wanted to gain firsthand knowledge of the electoral process, which is the only reason I am contesting the polls,” he explains.

Faruk Chauhan, a 48-year-old fitter from Dahegam in Gandhinagar district, echoes a similar sentiment: “I once dreamt of fighting elections. I chose this Lok Sabha election to fulfil my dream and to gain experience about the election process.”

However, for Vishnu Patni, a graduate with a BA in economics, the elections represent a means to gain dignity and respect for his Devipujak community. The 34-year-old, who earns a living by selling vegetables and working as an insurance agent, says, “I have been contesting the Lok Sabha polls to garner respect for my Devipujak community.

People ridicule our language and look down on us. I want to champion our cause.” With a rented megaphone and a determination to walk 20 to 25 kilometres daily for campaigning, Patni’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of equality.