Northeast Desk, 18th February: As the country prepares for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is gearing up for both continuity and change, aiming to secure a third consecutive term at the national level while presenting a “new-look BJP” to the electorate.
Among the discussions surrounding the upcoming elections is the potential candidacy of fiery BJP MP and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. Hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, Rijiju’s political journey has been under scrutiny, with claims emerging from his home state regarding his engagement with key issues and community concerns.
During his tenure as Union Law Minister, Rijiju encountered several controversies that impacted his public image. Notably, his clashes with the judiciary over issues such as the collegium system and his criticism of India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru sparked widespread debate and criticism.
Rijiju’s subsequent removal from the Law Ministry, interpreted by some as a strategic political maneuver, underscores the complexities of his political trajectory. Despite his significant presence in Indian politics, Rijiju now faces potential competition within his constituency, with Tai Tagak expressing interest in contesting for the Arunachal West parliamentary seat.
While Tagak’s ambition highlights the competitive nature of politics, it does not necessarily signal a decline in Rijiju’s popularity. However, the dynamics governing party decisions, internal competition, and representation will ultimately determine Rijiju’s future course, including his candidacy for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
As discussions continue within the BJP regarding its candidate lineup for the elections, decisions will be made by the party’s leadership, considering various factors beyond individual popularity. Thus, it remains speculative to predict Rijiju’s electoral prospects, as the final decision will be guided by the party’s strategic considerations and internal dynamics.
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