In footsteps of PM Modi, Odisha 'Chaiwala' to contest assembly polls

Sukanta Ghadai (26), who makes a humble living selling tea, filed his nomination from the Brahmagiri assembly constituency in Puri district.

A resident of Karimpur village, Ghadai is among the poorest candidates contesting the state assembly elections that are to be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls on May 25.

In the affidavit that he filed along with his nomination papers, the tea seller declared zero movable and immovable assets.

Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Ghadai, who is in the fray as an Independent candidate, said, "I drew inspiration from none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If a tea seller could become the prime minister, why can't a fellow tea seller be elected an MLA? I have filed my nomination papers and have resolved to rid Brahmagiri (his constituency) of corruption and be in the sincere service of the people if elected."

"I wish to work towards making my constituency self-dependent and free from corruption if the people elect me as their representative in the Assembly. I plan to rid this constituency of several ills and malpractices that are currently rampant, including the culture of accepting bribes in the process of enrolment for Aadhaar cards, ration cards and other documents,"

Expanding further on the prevailing issues in the constituency, Ghadai, said, "I am also determined to address the concern over poor accessibility of ambulances here if I am elected MLA and also reduce road accidents involving stray cattle."

Sharing his campaign plans, he said, "I have decided to campaign on my bicycle."

Urging fellow residents to bless and support in his maiden bid for membership of the state legislature, Ghadai promised to dedicate himself to meeting people's aspirations and honour his pledges if elected.

Ghadai is pitted against the ruling BJD's Umakanta Samantaray, BJP's Upasna Mohapatra and Congress nominee Mitrabhanu Mohapatra.

The constituency will poll along with the rest on May 25. (ANI)