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In a recent public event in Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state, stirred up a debate within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Chouhan openly asked the crowd whether he should continue as the Chief Minister or not, creating an atmosphere of unease within the party ranks. This question has gained significance as the state gears up for crucial assembly elections later this year.
Chouhan, addressing a gathering in the tribal-dominated Dindori district, questioned the audience, “Should Mama (as he is popularly called) become Chief Minister or not?” The crowd responded with resounding approval. He also raised a similar query about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, receiving positive feedback from the audience.
Chouhan’s emotional appeal to the voters, occasionally accompanied by tears, has marked his recent campaign efforts. He emphasized his dedication to the state, even making heartfelt appeals to women voters, stating, “You will not find a brother like me. You will remember me a lot when I am no longer around.”
The BJP central leadership, however, has opted for a different strategy. They plan to contest the elections in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, postponing the announcement of the party’s chief ministerial candidate until after the elections. Senior leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and party’s state poll panel convener Narendra Singh Tomar, have affirmed that the next Chief Minister will be decided post-elections.
Contrary to previous elections, where Chouhan led the party independently, the BJP this time aims to showcase collective leadership in Madhya Pradesh. This shift is seen as a response to surveys indicating strong anti-incumbency against Chouhan after the 2018 assembly defeat. The party appears keen to diversify leadership, not only in Madhya Pradesh but also in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, aligning with its long-term vision for the next two decades.
While Chouhan’s prominence in north India is undeniable, the party leadership’s silence on his achievements, even significant schemes like Ladli Behna, has raised eyebrows. Despite media speculation, the state BJP secretary, Rajneesh Agarwal, emphasized that the party’s stand on leadership is clear and unequivocal.
Political analyst Deepak Tiwari views the situation as a reflection of BJP’s internal confusion. He noted, “Shivraj Singh Chouhan is one of the prominent BJP leaders in north India, who made the BJP a party of the masses.” Tiwari suggests that Chouhan’s candid statement stems from his current position within the party, feeling cornered amidst these developments.
