BJP National President, Jagat Prakash Nadda, tendered his resignation as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha representing Himachal Pradesh on Monday. This decision followed his uncontested election to the upper house from Gujarat during the recent Rajya Sabha polls. Nadda was among the 41 candidates who secured seats without opposition in these elections, strategically positioning himself ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
The parliamentary bulletin of the Rajya Sabha confirmed Nadda's resignation, effective from March 4, 2024. His departure marked the end of his tenure along with 56 other Rajya Sabha members whose terms were set to conclude in April.
Nadda's shift from representing Himachal Pradesh to Gujarat underscored the BJP's strategic maneuvering, opting for a more secure victory in the latter state amid uncertain outcomes in Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh. Despite the BJP's dominance in Gujarat, securing the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Himachal Pradesh was not without its challenges. The BJP clinched victory through a dramatic lottery after six Congress MLAs cross-voted in its favor, resulting in a tie.
In the electoral battleground, Congress candidate Abhishek Singhvi received 34 votes, while BJP nominee Harsh Mahajan also garnered 34 votes. The deadlock was broken by a draw-of-lots, favoring Mahajan and securing the seat for the BJP. This unforeseen turn prompted the Congress to initiate damage control measures to prevent further political upheaval.
To maintain stability, senior Congress leaders Bhupinder Singh Hooda and DK Shivakumar were dispatched as observers. Their recommendation advised retaining Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu as the Chief Minister until the upcoming general elections to the Lower House.
Also Read: Congress Leaders Hooda And Shivakumar Touch Down In Shimla Amid Himachal Pradesh's Political Unrest
Subsequently, Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania announced the disqualification of the six MLAs who defected from the Congress party, further solidifying the BJP's position in the state's political landscape.
Overall, Nadda's resignation from the Rajya Sabha in Himachal Pradesh marks a strategic move amidst shifting political dynamics, reflecting the BJP's calculated approach towards consolidating power ahead of key electoral battles.
