BJP Member of Parliament Mansukh Vasava from Bharuch expressed concern on Wednesday regarding the potential negative impact of the stringent candidate selection criteria established by the party for the forthcoming local body elections. He noted that these regulations could demoralize party workers.

During a discussion with reporters at a party meeting in Bharuch, Vasava stated, “We do not fear the Aam Aadmi Party or Congress; rather, we are apprehensive that the rigorous standards set by the state BJP leadership for candidate selection might have adverse effects on the party.”

He elaborated on the specific guidelines, which include stipulations that candidates must be under the age of 60 and must not have any relatives who are current party members. Additionally, individuals who have completed three terms are ineligible for candidacy. “These criteria may ultimately harm the party’s interests,” he warned.

Vasava questioned the rationale behind implementing such strict rules for local body elections, given that similar restrictions are not applied to parliamentary elections. He emphasized that party members are dissatisfied because they have devoted significant effort to the party over the years. “At a time when they should be rewarded with leadership opportunities, they find themselves excluded from candidacy, which has left them disheartened,” he remarked, indicating that the party is now seeking fresh faces for these elections.

He further noted, “The BJP prides itself on its discipline, and while party members may not openly express their concerns to leadership, they confide in me personally about their dissatisfaction with these new regulations. In my view, the criteria for local body elections should be more adaptable.”

Vasava cautioned that introducing new candidates for certain positions could potentially dishearten seasoned party members who have contributed to past electoral efforts.

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