In Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced competition from various political contenders representing diverse ideologies and parties. From prominent opposition leaders to local activists, each challenger brings their unique vision and strategies to the electoral battleground. Rivals often highlight issues such as development, governance, and local concerns to contrast their approach with Modis leadership. While some contenders emphasize grassroots connections and community engagement, others leverage national narratives and policy critiques to challenge Modis dominance in the constituency.Here are 7 who dared to challenge Modi in Varanasi: Arvind Kejriwal (AAP) (2014)Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), contested against Narendra Modi in Varanasi during the 2014 elections. Kejriwals campaign focused on anti-corruption and grassroots politics.Ajay Rai (INC): (2014, 2019)Ajay Rai, a leader from the Indian National Congress (INC), contested against Modi in Varanasi in both 2014 and 2019. He has been a prominent political figure in Uttar Pradesh, representing the Congress Partys interests in the region.Shalini Yadav (SP-BSP-RLD alliance) (2019)Shalini Yadav was the candidate of the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance in Varanasi during the 2019 elections. She aimed to challenge Modis dominance in the constituency.Tej Bahadur Yadav (Independent) (2019)Tej Bahadur Yadav, a former Border Security Force (BSF) constable, contested as an independent candidate in Varanasi during the 2019 elections. He gained attention for his social media presence and issues related to security forces welfare.Mukhtar Ansari (BSP) (2014)Mukhtar Ansari, a leader from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), contested against Modi in Varanasi during the 2014 elections. Ansari is a prominent figure in Uttar Pradesh politics, especially in eastern Uttar Pradesh.Vijay Prakash Jaiswal (Bahujan Mukti Party) (2019)Vijay Prakash Jaiswal was the candidate of the Bahujan Mukti Party in Varanasi during the 2019 elections. His candidacy aimed to provide an alternative political voice to the mainstream parties.Chandrapal Singh Yadav (Jan Adhikar Party) (2019)Chandrapal Singh Yadav contested from the Jan Adhikar Party in Varanasi during the 2019 elections. His campaign focused on issues relevant to the local population and marginalized communities.Additional mention Shyam Rangeela (Independent) (2024)Shyam Rangeela, a comedian and social activist, contested as an independent candidate in Varanasi during the 2019 elections. His candidacy brought a unique perspective to the political landscape, focusing on issues of humor and social awareness, but was rejected
