Rajasthan: BJP intensifies candidate talks, seeks to contain rebellion ahead of civic polls

Jaipur, Aug 29 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up preparations for the upcoming Rajasthan civic elections, with senior leaders holding detailed discussions on candidate selection and measures to prevent rebellion over ticket distribution.

A meeting of senior BJP leaders was held at the party’s state headquarters in Jaipur, where division‑wise candidates were discussed. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and state ministers Joraram Kumawat, Otaram Dewasi and Kanhaiya Lal Choudhary participated in the deliberations.

Minister Joraram Kumawat said the BJP was confident of forming boards in the civic elections, adding that candidate selection would be decided collectively, with priority given to dedicated party workers. Chief Minister Sharma also joined the discussions as the party worked to finalise candidates.

The ticket‑selection process has triggered resentment among some workers and leaders. Amid reports of dissatisfaction and possible rebellion, former minister and Jaipur division in‑charge Prabhulal Saini appealed to workers to remain patient. He said dissatisfaction followed by withdrawal of objections was a normal feature of elections and urged party workers to understand that civic polls were not their last electoral opportunity.

Saini stressed that the party had given political responsibility and opportunities to its workers over time. Addressing concerns over rebellion, he said the BJP had constituted a damage‑control team to address grievances and persuade dissatisfied workers and leaders. He warned that disciplinary action would be taken against those who openly rebel or engage in indiscipline. At the same time, efforts were being made to convince disgruntled aspirants before and after the announcement of candidates.

The BJP’s immediate challenge is to complete ticket distribution while maintaining organisational unity and preventing rebel candidates from damaging prospects of officially nominated candidates. The leadership is also seeking to send a message of inclusiveness by considering candidates recommended by sitting MLAs as well as leaders who have previously contested elections, including some defeated candidates.

With ticket distribution gaining momentum, the BJP leadership is focusing on candidate selection, damage control and organisational unity ahead of the Rajasthan civic elections.

–IANS

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