Kumar Bahukhandi
Former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Dr. Narottam Mishra (left) and BJP’s Datia by-election candidate Ashutosh Tiwari. The BJP’s decision to deny Mishra a ticket has triggered widespread protests, mass resignations, and an internal revolt in the Datia district unit ahead of the crucial Assembly by-election- Photo Credit -Internet ( File Photo)
District President, Entire Executive Committee Quit; Highway Blocked as Supporters Protest Ashutosh Tiwari’s Nomination
Datia (Madhya Pradesh): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing one of its biggest internal rebellions in Madhya Pradesh after the announcement of Ashutosh Tiwari as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Datia Assembly by-election, replacing former Home Minister Dr. Narottam Mishra, a veteran leader who represented the constituency for several terms.
The decision has sparked widespread outrage among Mishra’s supporters, leading to mass protests, resignations, and a complete blockade of the Datia highway. The political unrest has exposed deep divisions within the party at a crucial time, forcing the BJP leadership to confront a major organizational challenge.
Highway Blocked, Tyres Burnt
Soon after the BJP released its candidate list, hundreds of angry supporters gathered in Datia town, shutting down markets and blocking the main highway by burning tyres. Protesters raised slogans against the party leadership, accusing it of ignoring grassroots workers and sidelining a senior leader who has long been identified with the constituency.
Traffic came to a standstill for several hours as police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order.
Mass Resignations Rock District Unit
Escalating the crisis, BJP District President Suresh Gupta resigned from his post in protest. In a dramatic show of dissent, the entire district executive committee also submitted its resignation, reflecting the intensity of resentment among local party workers.
Several BJP leaders alleged that the decision to deny a ticket to Narottam Mishra had demoralized the cadre and hurt the sentiments of long-time supporters.
Narottam Mishra’s Stronghold
Dr. Narottam Mishra has been one of the BJP’s most influential leaders in Madhya Pradesh. A former Home Minister and close strategist within the party, he represented Datia multiple times and has maintained a strong political presence in the region.
Although he has not made any public statement against the party’s decision, his supporters have openly expressed disappointment, demanding that the leadership reconsider its choice.
BJP Leadership Faces Damage Control
The BJP has nominated Ashutosh Tiwari, a former Divisional Organisation Secretary known for his organisational background. However, his candidature has triggered resistance from local workers who believe the party overlooked electoral experience and local sentiments.
Senior BJP leaders are expected to engage with disgruntled workers in an effort to prevent the rebellion from affecting the by-election campaign.
Opposition Sees Opportunity
Political observers believe the internal unrest could provide an opening for the opposition, particularly if the BJP fails to reconcile with dissatisfied leaders and workers in time.
With the by-election expected to be closely watched across Madhya Pradesh, the BJP’s ability to restore unity in Datia may prove crucial to its electoral prospects.
The coming days are likely to witness intense negotiations as the party leadership attempts to contain the rebellion and prevent further organisational fallout.
( With Inputs from Channel24india.com Madhya Pradesh Bureau )
