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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to replicate its successful strategy in Madhya Pradesh by fielding Union ministers and lawmakers in upcoming elections in MP, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh. Party insiders suggest that this template may extend to other states as well, particularly Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, which are scheduled for elections later this year.
In addition to these three states, Mizoram and Telangana are also poised to elect new assemblies by year-end. While the BJP has already announced a list of 79 candidates for Madhya Pradesh, a list of 21 candidates has been unveiled for Chhattisgarh. Notably, one sitting MP, Vijay Baghel, and a former MP, Ramvichar Netam, have been included in the Chhattisgarh candidate roster.
According to senior BJP officials, the decision to field prominent party figures, including Union ministers and lawmakers, hinges on various factors, including the party’s chances of victory in a specific constituency. For instance, Kailash Vijayvarghia has been nominated to contest from the Indore-I constituency in Madhya Pradesh, a Congress stronghold. This choice demonstrates the party’s intent to deploy a strong leader with a substantial following to challenge and potentially secure the seat for the BJP.
Demographics of the constituency also play a pivotal role in the decision-making process. In Narendrapura, Narendra Patel received a ticket due to his family’s influence within the OBC community.
In Rajasthan, the decision to field lawmakers and Union ministers will be made based on specific needs. Some leaders have already been approached and instructed to begin groundwork in their respective areas.
Apart from electoral considerations, nominating lawmakers for assembly elections contributes to rejuvenating the party’s leadership by promoting a generational shift. While the BJP generally discourages individuals over 75 years old from contesting elections and holding office, there have been exceptions, such as Karnataka’s BS Yeddyurappa. Fielding more sitting MPs as assembly candidates paves the way for fresh faces in the 2024 polls.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suggestion to Rajya Sabha MPs to consider participating in at least one direct election has fueled speculation that several Union ministers, including cabinet members, might contest the 2024 Lok Sabha polls or receive tickets from their respective states. PM Modi’s message to party leaders emphasizes the need for many members to prepare for electoral battles.
By employing this strategic approach, the BJP aims to strengthen its presence in key states and ensure that it remains responsive to public sentiment, ultimately bolstering its electoral prospects.
