Angul: As far as domestic fighting goes, this can be headed for a close contest.
Basanta Pradhan (55) and Suryalaata Pradhan (48) were husband and wife, but on February 16 they would be in the opposite corner when the Pancrayat election took place.
Both have thrown their hats into the ring to post Sarpanch, put villagers and their own families in conformity for those who choose.
Basanta and Suryalata submitted their nomination paper to post Sarpanch in Jamunali Panchayat from BanarPal blocks separately on Friday.
While someone is supported by BJD, others have BJP support.
Basant said it didn’t mind who won the election.
“The aim is to solve the problems faced by Panchayat and provide facilities such as better roads, drinking water facilities and increasing other services in the area,” he said.
There are 13 candidates in Fray to post Sarpanch.
SuryaLataa echoed similar sentiments.
“I will be happy with anyone who won this election.
If my husband or I win, we will be equally happy,” he said.
SuryaLataata said that the election would not have an impact on their relationship.
“We don’t spoil yourself in criticism with each other.
We tell people what we can do for them if we win the election.
We marry happy and will remain so even after the election ends,” Suryalata said.
“Even though we are in a commotion for the same post, our family life is not affected,” Basanta said.
“We respect each other and love each other.
We are husband and wife when we are at home.
We never criticized each other when we met a voter outside,” he added.
But while the contestants showed Camaraderie which was great, it was not easy for villagers to choose one above the others.