Datia bypoll: BJP snubs senior leader, sparks controversy as the party’s decision to deny a ticket to Dr. Narottam Mishra has triggered widespread unrest in Madhya Pradesh. The Datia bypoll became a political flashpoint when the BJP high command chose Ashutosh Tiwari, the former Divisional Organization Secretary, over Mishra, a three-time MLA from the constituency. This move has exposed deep internal rifts within the party, leading to angry protests by Mishra’s supporters.
Following the ticket snub, Mishra’s followers took to the streets and staged a vigorous demonstration outside the party office. The situation quickly escalated into a law and order problem as activists blocked the Gwalior-Jhansi National Highway, resulting in traffic jams. Reports indicate that some protesters pelted stones at the police, leading to clashes and arrests. Many supporters have announced their resignations from the party, worsening the crisis for the BJP in the region.
The Datia bypoll was necessitated after Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti was sentenced to three years in prison in a 2015 bank fraud case, leaving the seat vacant. Mishra had been actively campaigning for months, confident of re-entering the electoral fray, but the party’s unexpected decision surprised everyone. The bypoll, scheduled for polling on July 30 and counting on August 3, now poses a major headache for the BJP, with its local activities nearly halted amid the turmoil.
In response to the unrest, Kunal Varma addressed the incidents in a recent tweet. The Datia bypoll remains a highly charged political issue, highlighting the challenges within the party. As the election date approaches, the BJP must manage both internal dissent and external law and order concerns. This episode underscores the sensitive nature of ticket distribution and its potential to spark controversy, shaping the political landscape in Madhya Pradesh.