1. BJP often changes chief ministers based on performance and influence.
2. The chief minister’s ability to maintain party unity is crucial.
3. Public support in elections and governance quality are key factors.
Agartala, July 17: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has a longstanding practice of changing its chief ministers, often assessing the performance and influence of the incumbent.
Factors such as the chief minister’s ability to maintain party unity, public support in various elections, and governance quality are crucial in these decisions.
Additionally, the central leadership’s confidence in the chief minister and the affection of top leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah play a significant role. If a chief minister’s tenure tarnishes the party’s reputation or leads to a decline in public support, a change in leadership is likely.
The Case of Biplab Kumar Deb
Biplab Kumar Deb, the first BJP chief minister in Tripura, was removed from his position due to various factors, including the party’s reputation and internal assessments. The current chief minister has, so far, managed to gain the BJP central leadership’s confidence, especially after victories in the 2023 Assembly elections and the Lok Sabha elections.
However, certain controversial decisions during his tenure have raised concerns within the central leadership. One such decision is the controversial favoring of Santiniketan Medical College, associated with a jailed Trinamool Congress leader.
Internal Party Dynamics and Leadership Tensions
Rumors suggest that longstanding party members and leaders in the state feel neglected. Former Union Minister of State Pratima Bhowmik, a respected and successful party worker, is at the center of these discussions.
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Despite her achievements, Bhowmik did not receive a Lok Sabha ticket this time, which many believe would have led to her reappointment as a Union Minister. Biplab Kumar Deb has also expressed his desire to return as chief minister, but the central leadership has not indicated any plans for his reinstatement.
The Role of Pratima Bhowmik
In the 2023 Assembly elections, there were speculations about Tripura potentially having its first woman chief minister. Pratima Bhowmik was nominated from Dhanpur, signaling the party’s consideration of this possibility.
Throughout her tenure as the Union Minister of State, Bhowmik has expressed her dedication to contributing to the state whenever possible. The current chief minister’s popularity has come under scrutiny due to various controversial decisions, which is causing concern within the party.
Leadership Challenges and Strategic Decisions
The current chief minister holds three major offices but faces criticism for his performance in these roles. With a Rajya Sabha seat vacant in the state, there is intense speculation about who the party will project for this position.
Winning elections in a small state like Tripura, whether Lok Sabha or Panchayat, is not considered a significant achievement, especially given the lack of strong opposition.
The opposition in Tripura has not yet managed to consolidate strength, and no political party seems capable of mounting a formidable challenge unless it holds power either at the center or in the state.
Uncertain Future and Central Leadership’s Strategy
With the BJP not holding a central force at the moment, the political situation in Tripura remains fluid. The central leadership’s decision-making will be critical in shaping the future of the state’s leadership.
As internal dynamics and strategic considerations continue to evolve, the party must navigate these complexities to maintain its influence and support in Tripura.
