Ten BJP MPs, Including Union Ministers, Resign Following Victory in State Assembly Polls
06-12-2023 : On Wednesday, a significant political development unfolded as ten out of the 12 BJP Members of Parliament, including Union ministers Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Patel, who emerged victorious in the recent assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, tendered their resignations from the Parliament. The MPs took this step following meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President JP Nadda.
Among those who submitted their resignations were Rakesh Singh, Uday Pratap Singh, and Ridhi Pathak from Madhya Pradesh; Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Diya Kumari, and Kirori Lal Meena from Rajasthan; and Arun Sao and Gomti Sai from Chhattisgarh. However, Baba Balaknath and Renuka Singh are yet to formalize their resignations. As per the established procedure, lawmakers are required to resign either from the Parliament or the state assembly within 14 days of the declaration of election results.
Prahlad Patel, the Minister of State for Food Processing, announced his intention to resign from the cabinet as well, contributing to the speculation surrounding potential chief ministerial candidates in the states where the BJP emerged victorious. While the BJP retained power in Madhya Pradesh, it secured victories against the Congress in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Reports suggest that the resignations have triggered discussions about the possibility of these leaders assuming chief ministerial roles.
Notably, the BJP’s reconsideration of leadership in Madhya Pradesh has led to speculation about a potential reshuffle in the Union cabinet, setting the stage for adjustments ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressing the rumors, asserted on Tuesday that he is “not in the race” for the chief minister’s position and has no plans to relocate to Delhi.
This political development not only signifies a potential shift in state leadership but also hints at broader implications for the BJP’s political strategy and representation at both the state and national levels. The resignations may pave the way for a new political landscape in the states where the BJP tasted success, while also offering opportunities for fresh faces and configurations within the Union cabinet. As political dynamics evolve, the impact of these resignations is likely to resonate in both state politics and the higher echelons of the central government.
