Punjab: Ravinder Pal Singh, popularly known as “Babaji Burgerwala,” is re-enters for the Ludhiana Lok Sabha elections race as an independent candidate. Despite lacking high-profile resources or a sophisticated campaign strategy. He navigates the elctoral landscape on a scooter accompanied by his lone gunman. This unique mode of campaiging, provided by the Election commission of India, underscores Singh’s grassroots approach to engaging with voters.
Singh is giving a serious shot for the June 1 Lok Sabha election for the Ludhiana parliamentary constituency and talks about the problems in this city. The 34-year-old said that he aims to create awareness among people on issues that are important for Ludhiana and Punjab.
Singh is seeking votes promising a cancer-free, drug-free Punjab and vowing to provide the right to education, along with affordable healthcare for Ludhiana residents. “I want to make Ludhiana cancer-free and provide good education and healthcare for all,” Singh told ANI.
Expressing anger on the local industries, Singh accused it of contributing to the pollution causing cancer in the region. He alleged that all major political parties–BJP, Congress, Akali Dal, and AAP–are tainted by their associations with industrialists.
“I want to save Buddha Dariya in Ludhiana, which flows from the Satluj River and is now spreading diseases, including cancer. No political party is addressing these issues,” he told ANI.
Despite his financial constraints, Singh’s determination remains unshaken.
He campaigns without supporters, relying solely on his efforts and a single gunman provided for security by the Election Commission of India.
Last year, Singh contested the election but lost his security deposit.
However, he remains undeterred, saying, “I’m not contesting for victory but for creating awareness among the people of Ludhiana.” Having studied up to 8th class and coming from a family with seven sisters and a brother, Ravinder said that he is getting a good response from people.
Singh has also utilised his burger shop, located opposite the gurudwara in Model Town Extension, to highlight his campaign. Banners displayed at the shop outline the key issues he aims to address in Parliament if elected.
As he is busy campaigning for himself, Singh has temporarily closed his shop “Babaji Burgerwala”.
Singh has given interesting names to his burgers, such as “AK-47 Burger, “Punjab Police Burger,” and “Jagga Daku Burger among others.
Ravinder Pal Singh’s grassroots campaign and dedication to raising awareness about pressing local issues make him a notable candidate in the upcoming election, showcasing the spirit of independent political activism in Punjab.
Ludhiana stands out not just as one of Punjabs 13 Lok Sabha constituencies, but also as a vital industrial hub. Home to the Punjab Agricultural University, the city is a treasure trove of rural Punjabi culture, showcasing traditional attire, musical instruments, and pottery.
Ravinder Pal Singh is in the fray against Bharatiya Janata Party nominee MP Ravneet Bittu, Congress’ Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and Aam Aadmi Party’s Ashok Parashar Pappi.
Punjab’s 13 seats will be voting on June 1 in the seventh phase of the general elections. The counting will be held on June 4.