As the election date looms closer, Hema Malini, the iconic actress-turned politician and incumbent Member of Parliament from Mathura, ramps up her campaign amidst growing criticism and challenges. Seeking a third consecutive term under the Bharatiya Janata Party banner, Malini finds herself under fire, labeled as a Missing MP and an outsider in her own constituency. The opposition, led by Congress-Samajwadi Party alliance candidate Mukesh Dhangar, has championed the narrative of Brajwasi versus Pravasi, painting Malini as disconnected from local issues. Despite her two-term tenure since 2014, doubts linger about her presence during crucial moments, such as the 2016 Mathura riots, with reports suggesting she was away shooting in Mumbai. Mathura needed her the most during the 2016 riots, but she was nowhere to be found. When contacted, she cited law and order as a state subject, shifting responsibility on Akhilesh Yadav, remarked Manish Sharma, an activist with a local NGO, invoking a line from one of her famous film songs to underscore the communitys longing for her support during crisis. Critics highlight multiple areas where Malinis performance has purportedly fallen short, particularly in addressing environmental concerns like the pollution of the river Yamuna. Despite symbolic gestures such as Yamuna puja ceremonies, the river remains polluted, sparking frustration among locals who depend on it for drinking water. Our leaders should remember that the Yamuna is the lifeline for thousands. If we neglect the river, what future are we leaving for ourselves? asked local activist Madhu Mangal Shukla. Furthermore, Malinis recent photo-op while harvesting wheat has drawn sharp criticism, with detractors accusing her of prioritising optics over genuine engagement with local issues.   Instead of indulging in photo opportunities, she should have focused on preserving Mathuras rich heritage, lamented Anil Yadav, general secretary of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee. The upcoming election has transformed into a battleground of contrasting visions for Mathuras representation. While the opposition stresses the significance of local roots and accountability, Malinis camp relies on her celebrity status and ties with prominent political figures like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Aapne BJP ko vote nahin diya to desh mein andhkar ho jayega, andhere se kya fayda? warned Malini, highlighting the Modi governments accomplishments in her campaign speeches. Despite the oppositions attempts to frame the election as Brajwasi versus Pravasi, BJP leaders exude confidence in Malinis prospects. Congress is not even in the competition and has failed to field a suitable candidate, resorting to importing one, asserted Shyam Bhadoria, BJPs election in-charge for the Mathura constituency. With polling scheduled for April 26, the contest in Mathura escalates, fueled by debates over local representation, environmental stewardship and the role of celebrity in politics. As voters deliberate their choices, the outcome of this election will not only shape Mathuras future but also reflect broader trends in Indian politics. In the electoral arena, Hema Malini (Bharatiya Janata Party) faces Mukesh Dhangar (Congress) and Suresh Singh (Bahujan Samaj Party).

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