That “fauji votes” playing a big role in Uttarakhand is no secret. Forming nearly 12% of the total electorate in the hill State, retired and serving army personnel and their family members decide the fate of candidates across the State, more so in around 34 constituencies in the hilly region.
While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appears to have the advantage when it comes to nationalism, the Congress’ efforts to build strong narratives involving defense personnel include placing pictures of the late Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Bipin Rawat, and martyrs, in its election offices.
