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BJP Candidates List 2024: Notable Exclusions and the Party's Message

Kalyani Jha
06 Mar, 2024

In a strategic move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiled its first list of candidates, targeting an ambitious goal of securing 370 seats in the Parliament. While most of the selections were anticipated, the absence of certain prominent names sends a clear message from the BJP leadership regarding its stance on contentious issues.

1. Sadhvi Pragya Thakur:

Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, infamous for her involvement in the Malegaon blast case, faced backlash in the 2019 elections amid accusations of extremism. Despite controversies surrounding her tenure, including objectionable remarks and unscientific claims, she clinched victory in Bhopal. However, her recent replacement with Alok Sharma on the Bhopal seat suggests a shift in the party's approach.

2. Parvesh Verma:

Parvesh Verma, the sitting MP from West Delhi, garnered attention for his incendiary comments during the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests, which fueled communal tensions. His provocative statements preceding the 2020 Delhi riots and subsequent controversial remarks led to widespread criticism. Despite his influence in the region, his replacement with Kamaljeet Sehrawat signals a recalibration in BJP's candidate selection strategy.

3. Ramesh Bidhuri:

Ramesh Bidhuri, representing South Delhi, faced scrutiny after making derogatory remarks against fellow Parliamentarian Danish Ali, drawing condemnation from various quarters. Despite his assignment as the election in-charge of the Tonk constituency in Rajasthan, his future in Parliament remains uncertain. The absence of BJP MP Harsh Vardhan from Chandni Chowk, who was seen laughing during Bidhuri's controversial remarks, further underscores the party's recalibrated approach to candidate selection.

These notable exclusions from the BJP's first list of candidates underscore the party's emphasis on maintaining a positive image and avoiding controversies that could detract from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership stature. The strategic replacements and the exclusion of controversial figures highlight the BJP's commitment to presenting a unified and disciplined front in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.