Madhya Pradesh – Digvijaya Singh Plans Ujjain-to-Ayodhya Foot March
Madhya Pradesh – Political developments, religious issues and sporting achievements are drawing attention across Madhya Pradesh as former chief minister Digvijaya Singh prepares for a long foot march, BJP leaders await possible organisational changes, and 22 athletes from the state qualify for the upcoming Asian Games
Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh has announced plans to undertake a 1,000-kilometre padyatra from Ujjain to Ayodhya, beginning on Dussehra, which falls on October 20. Singh said the march would focus on what he described as the protection of Sanatan Dharma and would not be a political exercise.
Singh Raises Questions Over Temple Administration
Singh alleged irregularities in the management of the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, drawing a comparison with concerns earlier raised over donations connected with the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The allegations have not been independently established in the information provided.
Speaking about the proposed journey, Singh said he had spent decades in public life and now wished to focus on religious matters rather than electoral politics. He said he had served five terms as an MLA and four as an MP, and was approaching the age of 80.
“I understand Sanatan Dharma, the BJP, the VHP and the RSS,” Singh said while announcing the padyatra. He added that he would avoid making public statements during the entire journey.
BJP Leaders Watch for Cabinet and Party Changes
Meanwhile, political circles in Madhya Pradesh are discussing the possibility of an expansion of the Union Council of Ministers under the Modi government. While no official announcement has been made, several names from the state are being discussed as possible contenders.
Among those being mentioned is Khajuraho MP VD Sharma, a two-term parliamentarian and former state BJP president. Bhind MP Sandhya Rai, who represents the Scheduled Caste-reserved constituency and is also serving her second term, is another name being considered in political discussions.
Newly elected Rajya Sabha member Mahesh Kewat has also been mentioned, though party observers describe his chances as less certain.
State Leaders May Also Join National BJP Team
The discussion is not limited to a possible Union cabinet reshuffle. BJP leaders from Madhya Pradesh are also being seen as potential members of the new national team expected to be formed under party president Nitin Nabin.
The final decisions on cabinet appointments and organisational responsibilities will rest with the BJP’s central leadership. For now, the names circulating in party discussions remain speculative, with no formal confirmation from the party.
Twenty-Two Athletes Earn Asian Games Selection
Madhya Pradesh has also recorded a strong sporting milestone, with 22 athletes from the state qualifying to represent India at the upcoming Asian Games. The selected players will compete in athletics, shooting, canoe slalom, kayaking, judo and equestrian events.
The contingent includes rifle shooter Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, who won three medals at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, including a team gold medal. Another prominent name is shooter Ashi Chouksey, who also secured three medals during the previous Asian Games.
Experienced Performers Lead State Contingent
Other selected athletes include shot put competitor Samardeep Singh Gill and pole vaulter Dev Meena. Cricketer Kranti Goud, a member of India’s 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup-winning squad, is also among the athletes from Madhya Pradesh named in the wider list.
The selection of 22 competitors reflects the state’s growing presence across multiple sports. Their participation at the Asian Games will provide an opportunity to compete against leading athletes from across the continent and strengthen India’s medal prospects.