Ex-Madhya Pradesh CM Uma Bharti eyes 2029 return via cow campaign

Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Uma Bharti is eyeing a return to mainstream politics - and she has a plan in motion. The BJP's firebrand Hindutva leader will launch an 18-month cow-protection campaign from October 29, marking what she describes as the end of her self-imposed political exile.

During an interaction with media at Lalitpur railway station on October 18, Bharti signalled her intent to contest the 2029 Lok Sabha polls from Jhansi, a constituency she represented in 2014. The seat is currently held by BJP's Anurag Sharma, who has won consecutive terms since 2019.

Her remarks immediately stirred unease among local BJP leaders, particularly in Sharma's camp. Bharti later clarified that while she wishes to contest from Jhansi, the decision rests with the party and her comments should not be seen as undermining the sitting MP.

Despite the clarification, her announcement has revived speculation within the local unit about her political comeback - and whether her new campaign is the first step toward reclaiming her place in the BJP's Hindutva fold.