Himachal Politics: 9 MLAs including 6 Congress disqualified MLAs join BJP
Himachal Politics: In a significant political development in Himachal Pradesh, nine former MLAs, including six from the Congress party, have joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), adding to the ongoing political turmoil in the state. This move comes as a blow to the Congress-led government headed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, with the defectors criticizing the administration for stalling development initiatives since assuming power.
The nine former lawmakers officially joined the BJP on Saturday in the presence of key party figures including Union Minister Anurag Thakur, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, and other prominent leaders. Anurag Thakur welcomed the new members, emphasizing their role in bolstering the BJP's strength and condemning the Congress government's failure to deliver on its promises, which has allegedly fueled public discontent.
#WATCH | Shimla: Six rebel MLAs and three independent MLAs of Himachal Pradesh who joined BJP, earlier today, receive a grand welcome in Shimla pic.twitter.com/R3M7oaYgI3
— ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2024
Among the defectors are six Congress MLAs who were disqualified on February 29 for disregarding the party whip during a crucial legislative session. Their decision to join the BJP underscores a growing dissatisfaction within the Congress ranks. Additionally, three Independent MLAs, who resigned from their positions, also switched allegiance to the BJP, citing a desire to contribute to the nation's development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
The BJP leadership highlighted various developmental initiatives undertaken by the central government for Himachal Pradesh, aiming to contrast the alleged stagnation under the Congress rule. These former MLAs are expected to contest upcoming by-elections on BJP tickets, signaling a potential shift in the state's political landscape.
Commenting on the defections, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur described the move as a significant political development, particularly noting the seniority and influence of some of the former Congress leaders within the party. The defectors criticized the Congress party's national leadership, accusing it of lacking vision and contributing to the party's decline.
The Election Commission has announced by-elections for the constituencies represented by the defectors, both from the Congress and Independents. The BJP's increased presence in the state assembly following these defections has heightened speculation about the stability of the Congress-led government, with the BJP aiming to capitalize on the situation through strategic bypoll wins and potential further defections.
The recent political maneuvering has reduced the Congress party's strength in the assembly, paving the way for a more assertive BJP opposition. While Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu remains defiant, the BJP's efforts to undermine his government's stability continue, raising questions about the future political landscape in Himachal Pradesh.
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