In Indian politics, there exists a notable phenomenon where individuals who excel on television often struggle to win over voters at the ballot box. Despite their ability to generate high TRPs for news anchors as top spokespersons, their popularity on screen does not necessarily translate into success during elections. This disconnect raises questions about the correlation between media prominence and electoral viability. As Congress leaders increasingly shift allegiance to the ideologically different BJP camp, it underscores the trend of high-profile figures who gained prominence through television appearances but failed to secure electoral victories.
Gaurav Vallabh
A Congress stalwart known for his data-driven arguments, suffered defeats in both the 2019 Lok Sabha election from Jharkhand and the 2022 Rajasthan assembly poll.
Sambit Patra
Celebrated for his eloquence and debating skills on television, experienced electoral disappointment in his first Lok Sabha poll from Odisha.
Yogendra Yadav
Acclaimed as a psephologist and election analyst, encountered disappointment by losing his deposit in his initial electoral bid after joining AAP.
Atishi
Atishi is a prominent face of AAP in the media who faced defeat in her first electoral contest for the Lok Sabha from Delhi in 2019.
Ashutosh
A former journalist turned politician associated with AAP, failed to secure victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha poll from Chandni Chowk, prompting his return to journalism.
Late Arun Jaitley
Renowned for his legal acumen and strategic prowess in elections, faced defeat in his first attempt at a Lok Sabha seat from Amritsar despite being a seasoned Rajya Sabha member.
Nirmala Sitharaman
Last but not least, Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister and former spokesperson, says that she cannot fight Lok Sabha Elections due to financial constraints, particularly in a state where the BJP lacks a robust political base.