Kumudini in fray to fulfil late husband Daultabad’s vision

While a majority of leaders have shied away from facing the irate Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Independent candidate from Badshahpur, Kumudini Rakesh Daultabad, took up the challenge. Residents of New Gurugram, who have been hit hardest by poorly developed and waterlogged roads, had invited leaders to face a ‘question hour,’ daring them to address their concerns.

Promises action over politics

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• Rakesh Daultabad served as the MLA from Badshahpur from 2019 to 2024. Though he ran as an Independent candidate, he extended support to the BJP and played a key role in the formation of the Nayab Singh Saini-led government during the final stretch of the state government’s tenure. Known for his immense popularity, Rakesh was expected to run for re-election this year but tragically passed away due to cardiac arrest.
• In the wake of his untimely demise, his wife, Kumudini, a former fashion designer, has taken on the responsibility of completing his unfinished projects. Running under the slogan ‘Rajniti nahi kaaryaniti’ (not politics, but action), Kumudini is determined to fulfil her husband’s vision for the constituency. While her rivals dismiss her as a political novice, she is gaining traction with Rakesh’s loyal support groups, striking a chord with those who trusted his leadership.

Kumudini, the wife of the late and popular former MLA Rakesh Daultabad, not only accepted the residents’ challenge, but also laid out her vision for the next five years. Many of the projects initiated by her husband were left unfinished following his sudden death during the last Lok Sabha elections.

Rakesh Daultabad’s vision had focused on resolving key issues in the area, including the removal of the Kherki Daula toll plaza, establishing a mega rainwater reservoir network, granting more autonomy to RWAs and improving road infrastructure.

“Neither the BJP nor the Congress has given Badshahpur its due. It was during my husband’s tenure that the constituency received the attention it deserved, and many issues were addressed. We introduced new stormwater drains, improved roads and enhanced infrastructure. He was actively working to remove the toll plaza and establish a reservoir system, not only to mitigate waterlogging but also to conserve rainwater. I am here to complete his work and bring his vision for the area to life,” Kumudini said, while addressing the RWAs.

Kumudini faces a challenging electoral battle, as she is up against seasoned BJP candidate and former minister Rao Narbir Singh, as well as young Congress leader Vardhan Yadav.