A dozen Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Members of Parliament (MPs) from Uttar Pradesh are reportedly exploring options outside the party for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. These MPs are sensing potential denial of tickets, either due to age or perceived poor performance.
Some MPs claim that they have not received adequate communication or consultation from the party leadership, leading them to believe that they may not be in favor due to instances where they did not align with party expectations. One MP from eastern Uttar Pradesh expressed dissatisfaction with the party's lack of engagement and mentioned a specific incident where he chose to attend a worker's father's cremation over a minister's felicitation program.
Another MP, who recently turned 73, has received vague indications that he may not be considered for a ticket due to his age. Allegations of selective application of age-related rules within the party have fueled uncertainty among some MPs, leading them to explore options outside the BJP.
Notable BJP MPs in Uttar Pradesh who may touch or cross the 75-age limit by the next year include Santosh Gangwar (Bareilly), Hema Malini (Mathura), and Satyadev Pachauri (Kanpur).
In response to these developments, the Uttar Pradesh BJP chief, Bhupendra Chaudhary, stated that the party would initiate a feedback process to assess the performance of its MPs in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This evaluation is a routine practice for the party to gauge the electability of its candidates before an election.
Chaudhary dismissed rumors about BJP MPs considering a shift to opposition parties, emphasizing the party's trust in its members. He clarified that decisions regarding ticket distribution would be made after due consultation.
Experts suggest that the BJP aims to evaluate its MPs based on various parameters, including the implementation of public welfare schemes in their constituencies. The assessment reports will be shared with the central leadership, which will play a crucial role in deciding the fate of the MPs. The evaluation process is expected to be completed by January.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | ‘History will be created’: 7 guarantees set narrative in Cong’s favour, says Gehlot
