Why Former Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat Wants to Become a Booth President: His Unusual Demand Sparks Political Debate

Dehradun: Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Harish Rawat has once again stirred political discussions within the party with an unconventional demand—he wants to be appointed as the president of his own polling booth. Rawat has also requested that his brother, Jagdish Rawat, be made booth president in their ancestral village, Mohanri.

A Social Media Statement that Shocked Many
In a post on Facebook, Rawat expressed uncertainty about his role in the party under newly appointed state president Ganesh Godiyal and the election management committees. He wrote that having served in senior positions for decades, he now wishes to contribute from the grassroots level. He specifically requested that he be assigned as booth president of the polling station in the Dharmapur area, where his name appears on the voter list.

Political Reactions and Speculations
His statement has sparked intense debate within political circles. Some experts suggest that Rawat might be dissatisfied with the high command, while others see it as a rare instance of publicly breaking party discipline. Without naming anyone, Rawat indirectly criticized his old rival Dr. Harak Singh Rawat, describing individuals who make uncomfortable public statements as “toxic elements” in both Congress and BJP. He urged party members to channel such negativity to him, claiming he can “digest it” while others focus on moving forward.

An Appeal Against Neglect
Rawat emphasized that despite his age and health constraints, he remains relevant to the party. With 50 years of service, he believes it is his duty to offer experience at the grassroots level. He mentioned that central-level leadership still includes him and Pritam Singh, but he cannot handle higher responsibilities and hopes the party management recognizes this.

Desire for Active Role
The former CM clarified that he is not willing to remain idle at home but wants to stay actively involved in party work. He indicated that he would consider it an honor to be entrusted with the responsibility of a booth in Dharmapur, Doiwala, or Raipur constituencies, and even act as an election agent if candidates deem him suitable.

Political Implications
Analysts say Rawat’s statement reflects internal discontent over role allocation within Congress, as he attempts to maintain relevance ahead of upcoming assembly elections. His demand also subtly pressures the new leadership and indirectly targets old rivals, once again heating up internal party politics in the electoral season.