The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) endeavour to reshuffle district presidents in Uttar Pradesh has encountered resistance, owing to political dynamics ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary elections. The challenge primarily stems from the struggle to maintain a harmonious regional and caste balance across districts.
BJP State President, Bhupendra Chaudhary, proposed a comprehensive change involving over 40 out of 98 district and city president roles. This suggestion was motivated by the incumbents’ long tenures and subsequent appointments as Members of Legislative Council (MLSI). Avinash Chauhan and Jitendra Singh Singer are notable examples, having been designated as MLSIs. Moreover, many current presidents have held their roles for multiple terms, some spanning eight to ten years.
Chaudhary’s endeavours were reinforced by observer reports from each district, which he collated and forwarded to the National BJP President, JP Nadda. Despite these efforts, the proposal hasn’t received the required approval.
The central party leadership has hinted at enhancing female representation in these changes, given the meagre count of three current women district presidents. There’s also been a push to elevate members from Dalit and Other Backward Class (OBC) communities. Nevertheless, achieving a comprehensive balance that includes gender, caste, and regional representation remains an obstacle.
While some MPs oppose the potential appointees, others debate the extent of female representation within core organisational duties. Since Chaudhary’s tenure began, there’s been a surge in representation of women, Dalits, and OBCs. Currently, 11 women serve key roles within the state’s party structure.
As the impasse continues, all eyes turn to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and central BJP leadership for resolution.