In a significant blow to the Congress party's prospects in Rajasthan, veteran leader Sitaram Aggarwal announced his departure from the party today, opting to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Aggarwal's decision to switch sides comes as a setback for the Congress just ahead of the highly anticipated Lok Sabha elections in the state.

Addressing the media after joining the BJP, Aggarwal expressed his reasons for the move, stating, “I wandered away from home for ten years, but today, I have found my way back. Congress has lost its foothold in Vidyadhar Nagar, and I am now committed to serving the BJP wholeheartedly.”

The formal induction ceremony took place at the BJP state office in Jaipur, where Aggarwal was welcomed into the party fold by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari and senior party leader Aunkar Singh Lakhawat, among others. Aggarwal, who contested the recent assembly elections as the Congress candidate from the Vidyadhar Nagar constituency in Jaipur, suffered a significant defeat at the hands of BJP's Diya Kumari.

Expressing his allegiance to the BJP and Diya Kumari, Aggarwal pledged, “I will stand by Diya Kumari till my last breath. Under her leadership, we will forge ahead.” Reflecting on his humble beginnings and professional journey, he shared, “I hail from a modest background, starting my career with just Rs 200. Today, I am the proud owner of a successful Sariya Company.”

Aggarwal's departure from the Congress, where he previously served as the state treasurer, marks a notable loss for the party's leadership in Jaipur. The development underscores a growing trend in Rajasthan, with several Congress leaders defecting to the BJP in recent times.

In her remarks during the induction ceremony, Deputy CM Diya Kumari highlighted the significance of Aggarwal's joining, declaring, “Vidyadhar Nagar is now Congress-free, much like our victory over the pandemic. Aggarwal's decision comes at a crucial juncture, and we welcome him wholeheartedly.” Kumari expressed confidence in the BJP's electoral prospects, predicting a resounding victory for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Rajasthan.

As the political landscape in Rajasthan continues to witness dynamic shifts, Aggarwal's move signals yet another chapter in the evolving narrative of party alignments ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.