Pune: As the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections approach, internal tensions are rising within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over ticket distribution, particularly in the Khadakwasla Assembly constituency.
Sitting MLA Bhimrao Tapkir, who has represented the constituency for three terms, is facing competition from other local BJP leaders who are eyeing the party's ticket for the upcoming elections.
During a BJP meeting held on the 1st of the month, a fierce argument reportedly erupted between Tapkir and other prominent aspirants, including former corporators Prasanna Jagtap and Dilip Vede Patil.
The disagreement, which allegedly stemmed from a discussion over speech time allocation, laid bare the internal rift among BJP leaders in Khadakwasla.
Leadership Concerns Over Candidate Selection
BJP workers have raised concerns about Bhimrao Tapkir’s leadership style, accusing him of monopolizing discussions and not allowing other candidates to express their views during the meeting.
The argument took place in front of the central BJP observer Dhananjay Mahadik, who had been sent to assess the situation in the constituency.
The conflict has highlighted the growing divide within the BJP in Khadakwasla, as multiple aspirants seek the party’s nomination. Prasanna Jagtap, a former corporator and one of the leading contenders for the seat, voiced his frustration, stating, "We are also contenders, but we were not allowed to speak. We have raised this issue with the senior leadership."
Anti-Incumbency Concerns and Calls for Change
Bhimrao Tapkir has represented Khadakwasla for three consecutive terms and is seeking re-election for the fourth time. However, his narrow victory margin in the previous election has raised concerns among some BJP leaders and workers about possible anti-incumbency sentiments in the constituency.
Many believe that Tapkir’s continued candidacy could pose a risk to the party's chances in the upcoming election. As a result, some local party workers and office-bearers are pushing for a change in the candidate.
They argue that fresh leadership could reinvigorate the BJP’s presence in the area and counter any negative sentiment stemming from Tapkir's long tenure