Jaipur: Former Member of Parliament from Nagaur, Bhanu Prakash Mirdha, passed away on Thursday at his residence in Jodhpur. He had been suffering from a prolonged illness. The veteran political leader was a prominent figure in Rajasthan and a key member of the influential Mirdha family, which has shaped the politics of the Nagaur region for several decades.
Final Rites and Political Lineage
His last rites are scheduled to be performed on Friday at the Mirdha Farm located on Chaupasani Road in Jodhpur. Bhanu Prakash Mirdha's entry into the Lok Sabha was a significant event. He won the Nagaur by-election on a BJP ticket after the demise of his father, the veteran Congress and farmer leader Nathuram Mirdha, during the 11th Lok Sabha. This victory was a major turning point in the political history of the region.
The Historic Uncle vs Nephew Battle
A defining chapter in the Mirdha family's political saga unfolded in 1997. The Nagaur parliamentary seat became vacant following Nathuram Mirdha's death. While the Congress party nominated his brother and senior leader, Ram Niwas Mirdha, Bhanu Prakash Mirdha decided to contest the by-poll on a BJP ticket. This set the stage for a high-profile "uncle versus nephew" battle that captured attention across Rajasthan.
In a surprising outcome, Bhanu Prakash Mirdha emerged victorious. His win was seen as a signal of strong public support for a younger generation of leadership and it significantly altered the political dynamics of the Nagaur constituency.
Later Political Journey and Legacy
However, his political journey saw another twist. After being denied a party ticket by the BJP for the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, Mirdha chose to contest the polls as an independent candidate. He fought on the "aeroplane" symbol, marking a distinct phase in his career. His passing marks the end of an era for a family deeply entrenched in the political landscape of Rajasthan.
