Locals hold MLA’s ‘missing’ poster to protest neglected civic works in rural Rajkot

In a unique show of disappointment by the voters of Rajkot against councillor and Rajkot Rural MLA Bhanu Babariya, residents took to the streets on Tuesday, displaying banners that read, “MLA Bhanuben Babariya is Missing”.

Babariya, who holds dual positions as ward councillor in Rajkot and an MLA from Rajkot Rural, also serves as the Cabinet Minister for Social Justice in Gujarat government. However, people in her constituency are feeling neglected and voicing their frustration.

In Tramba village near Rajkot — known for the historic Kasturbadham and the sacred Triveni Sangam — angry residents showcased banners with slogans echoing against MLA Babariya.

The villagers allege that despite repeated appeals to the MLA, the dilapidated footbridge at the Triveni Sangam in Tramba has not been repaired. While there has been talk for years about developing the site, no real progress has been made. 

Recently, several bridge repair initiatives have been launched across the region following the Gambhira bridge tragedy. However, this particular bridge remains neglected. As a result, even visiting the temple has become a risky endeavour, leading to widespread anger. The banners sarcastically announced a “reward for anyone who finds Bhanuben Babariya”.

The citizens have constantly raised issues such as poor roads, garbage accumulation, and inadequate infrastructure. However, locals complain that she rarely attends municipal board meetings. 

Moreover, according to protesters, she has only shown up for one out of three mandatory sessions and often doesn’t even submit leave reports. The MLA  has also been subject to criticism for failing to open an office or take up people’s concerns at the municipal level.

Although Rajkot has been given representation in the state cabinet, citizens are now questioning what real benefit the city has received from it.

Who is Bhanu Babariya?

BJP MLA Babariya defeated AAP candidate Vashram Sagathiya in the Rajkot Rural Assembly seat during the 2022 elections.

Since 2017, she has been serving as Rajkot Rural's MLA. Babariya is an incumbent cabinet minister of Social Justice and Empowerment in the second Bhupendra Patel ministry.