BJP MP Bhatt withdraws candidature from Vadodara Lok Sabha seat

Bhatt prevailed in the Vadodara Lok Sabha seat in the by-poll held for the first time in 2014 due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to leave it to represent Varanasi.

Introduction:

Ranjan Bhatt, the sitting Member of Parliament (MP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for Gujarat’s Vadodara Lok Sabha seat, announced her withdrawal from the upcoming general elections citing personal reasons. 

This decision comes amidst dissatisfaction within the party over her nomination, with opposition emerging against her candidacy in Vadodara.

Reason for Withdrawal:

Taking to her official social media handle, Ranjan Bhatt stated her reluctance to contest the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 due to personal reasons. Her announcement follows the BJP’s decision to nominate her for a third consecutive term in the second list published on March 14.

Party Dissatisfaction:

Bhatt’s withdrawal comes in the wake of growing dissent within the BJP regarding her candidacy, highlighted by the appearance of posters and banners opposing her nomination across Vadodara. The party’s choice to field her as a candidate faced criticism, reflecting internal discord over the decision.

Background:

Ranjan Bhatt secured victory in the Vadodara Lok Sabha seat for the first time in 2014 during a by-poll initiated after Prime Minister Narendra Modi vacated the seat to contest from Varanasi. 

Despite her previous electoral success, her withdrawal underscores the evolving dynamics within the BJP ahead of the upcoming elections.

Additional Withdrawal:

In addition to Bhatt’s decision, Bhikaji Thakor, another BJP candidate from Sabarkantha, Gujarat, also expressed his unwillingness to contest in the election, further indicating internal challenges within the party’s candidate selection process.

Conclusion:

Ranjan Bhatt’s withdrawal from the electoral race for the Vadodara Lok Sabha seat underscores the complex interplay of personal considerations and political dynamics within the BJP. 

As the party navigates these challenges, the withdrawal of key candidates raises questions about its strategy and cohesion leading up to the general elections.