Scindia’s Growing Footprint in Gwalior-Chambal Raises Political Questions Despite Guna Mandate

Guna/Gwalior: The tragic death of a tribal woman in Madhya Pradesh after she stood in a fertiliser queue for two consecutive days has once again brought Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia into sharp public focus. Acting swiftly after the incident, Scindia reprimanded local officials, inspected fertiliser distribution centres, and directed immediate corrective measures to overhaul the supply system.

Beyond administrative accountability, the episode has highlighted Scindia’s increasing political and administrative activism in the Gwalior-Chambal region, even though he currently represents Guna in the Lok Sabha.

Swift Action After Tragedy

Following the woman’s death, Scindia personally intervened, ordered systemic improvements in fertiliser distribution, and ensured relief to the bereaved family. In a symbolic gesture aimed at breaking perceptions of political aloofness, he personally handed over the death certificate to the victim’s family—an act his supporters describe as part of his effort to shed his long-standing “royal image” and connect directly with the public.

Crackdown on Illegal Mining

Scindia has also taken a firm stand against illegal mining in the region. Acting on complaints, he instructed officials to take immediate action, leading to the seizure of seven dumpers and other equipment. Earlier in September, he surprised officials by arriving unannounced at a development review meeting, reinforcing his hands-on approach to governance.

Political observers believe this heightened activism is being carried out with the backing of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and is part of a broader strategy to consolidate influence in the strategically crucial Gwalior-Chambal belt.

A Career Marked by Political Ups and Downs

Scindia’s political journey has seen significant twists. After losing the 2019 Lok Sabha election as a Congress candidate, he quit the party in 2020 and joined the BJP, a move that led to the fall of the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh. In 2024, he made a strong comeback by winning from his family stronghold Guna with a decisive margin.

Supporters argue that Scindia has since transformed his political style—becoming more accessible, closely monitoring development projects, and maintaining direct engagement with officials and citizens.

Focus on Gwalior Sparks Speculation

Despite being Guna’s elected MP, Scindia’s sustained focus on Gwalior has sparked political debate. Local political analysts suggest that he may be preparing the ground for his son, Aryaman Scindia, in the region’s politics. Gwalior, a traditional seat of the Scindia family, continues to hold strong emotional and historical ties with the dynasty, making it a natural centre of influence.

Some observers caution against viewing this focus purely through a political lens, arguing that Scindia’s involvement in Gwalior also reflects longstanding familial bonds and public expectations.

₹200 Crore Development Push

Scindia is currently promoting development projects worth approximately ₹200 crore across his constituency. Key initiatives include:

• Construction of two major railway overbridges (RoBs) at Singawasa to ease traffic congestion
• Improved connectivity to Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and other parts of Madhya Pradesh
• The Khokhar bridge over the Niwari river
• Sirsi–Hathikundan road, benefitting several villages
• Four new 33/11 KVA power substations to strengthen electricity supply for agriculture and small industries

Parallel Push in Gwalior

In Gwalior, a dedicated team has been formed to fast-track stalled projects such as the Ambedkar Memorial, railway station redevelopment, and major road repairs. Other ongoing works include the Guna Sports Complex, the city’s first urban forest, new school buildings, and a dedicated building for journalists.