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The political landscape in India is poised for change as the Election Commission initiates preparations for the election of the new Vice President, succeeding Jagdeep Dhankhar. The selection process within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hinges on the BJP Parliamentary Board, a decision-making body helmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With the Prime Minister embarking on a four-day international tour, the crucial board meeting will be deferred until his return, setting the stage for a flurry of political activity upon his arrival. The selection of the Vice President holds significant weight, given the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) dominant position in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. This numerical strength effectively ensures that the government's chosen candidate is highly likely to secure victory in the election. Sources within the BJP emphasize that the individual selected for this prestigious position will be someone demonstrating unwavering loyalty to the party and its ideologies. This emphasis on loyalty underscores the importance of ideological alignment and commitment in the selection process.
Beyond the requirement of loyalty, discussions surrounding Dhankhar's replacement have centered on the idea of choosing a candidate who has a longstanding association with the NDA. This suggests a preference for individuals who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to the alliance's principles and have actively contributed to its political goals. The possibility of selecting a member from one of the NDA's key constituents, such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) or the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), has also been raised. Such a strategic move would serve to strengthen the bonds between the BJP and its coalition partners, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose within the alliance. Choosing a candidate from a regional party within the NDA would not only acknowledge their contribution to the alliance's success but also send a strong message of inclusivity and collaboration.
The timing of the vice-presidential election coincides with a period of anticipated reshuffling within the Union Cabinet, further amplifying the significance of this political moment. In addition to cabinet adjustments, there are expectations of gubernatorial postings and internal elections for the BJP's next national president. These concurrent events create a dynamic and complex political landscape, requiring careful consideration and strategic decision-making. According to insiders within the BJP, the reshuffle is likely to involve BJP Members of Parliament (MPs) nearing the end of their Rajya Sabha tenures, as well as Ministers of State and other party leaders. This comprehensive reshuffling indicates a broader effort to revitalize the government and the party, potentially bringing in fresh perspectives and addressing areas requiring improvement. The decision to make changes at multiple levels suggests a desire to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and public perception.
While the events in the Rajya Sabha involving Dhankhar's chairing of the House and the Opposition's motion against Justice Yashwant Varma are considered immediate triggers, sources suggest that Dhankhar's resignation had been anticipated for some time. A senior BJP leader attributed the resignation to a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, Dhankhar's health. A BJP MP who had met with Dhankhar prior to the commencement of the Monsoon Session reiterated that multiple reasons were at play, with Dhankhar's health being a significant contributing factor. This multifaceted explanation suggests that the decision to resign was not solely based on a single event but rather a culmination of various considerations, including personal well-being and perhaps other undisclosed political calculations. The timing of the resignation, coinciding with the upcoming vice-presidential election and the anticipated cabinet reshuffle, adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
The impending selection of the new Vice President presents an opportunity for the BJP to strategically position itself for future political endeavors. By choosing a candidate who embodies loyalty, experience within the NDA, and the potential to strengthen ties with key alliance partners, the BJP can consolidate its position and enhance its ability to govern effectively. The vice-presidential election is not merely a procedural exercise but rather a significant political event with far-reaching implications for the government, the party, and the broader political landscape. The decisions made in the coming weeks will shape the direction of Indian politics and influence the course of governance for years to come. The eyes of the nation are on the BJP as it prepares to make its choice, a choice that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the country's political future.
Source: Choice of govt’s VP nominee likely after PM’s return from tour, NDA allies in with a chance