Bansal likely to get key role in Telangana BJP

Hyderabad: Amidst growing dissidence within its ranks, the BJP's national leadership is considering changes in the governance and functioning of its Telangana unit. To instill discipline and unity, it is expected that Sunil Bansal, the BJP national general secretary currently overseeing organisational matters in Telangana, will be given an expanded role. Bansal, known for his no-nonsense approach and credited with Uttar Pradesh's electoral success, is anticipated to shape the Telangana BJP into a formidable force ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The party aims to address internal disagreements rein in ‘free thinkers’ and ‘free speakers’ and emphasise the importance of unity to enhance its prospects in the state.

The leadership intends to consolidate authority under one person, enabling better coordination within the party. At present there are two BJP national general secretaries in charge of Telangana affairs, the second being Tarun Chugh looking after political affairs. “This could happen before Union home minister Amit Shah arrives in the state to address a public meeting in Khammam on June 15, or at the most by the end of this month once our Maha Jan Sampark Abhiyan ends on June 30,” a party source said.

“The party is absolutely set to do everything it can to win in Telangana,” a senior party leader said

Recent dissenting voices from both new and established BJP leaders have caused confusion and discontent. Disappointment has also arisen over comments made by Huzurabad MLA Etela Rajender regarding the non-joining of former BRS leaders into the BJP. Union minister of state for law and justice Arjun Ram Meghawal has reportedly informed the party high command about the situation in the state party unit.

Moreover, statements by a senior BJP leader suggesting a poor performance and a predicted third place finish in the upcoming Assembly elections have upset the party's high command. Factionalism within the party has emerged, with differing views on how the BJP should be run in Telangana, particularly after the party's losses in recent byelections.

In this context, comments made by former Patancheru MLA T. Nandeeshwar Goud about "KCR's coverts" within the state BJP need to be understood. The state leadership may be exerting pressure on dissidents by highlighting issues of dissent within the party.

The national leadership is determined to address these challenges and ensure a united and focused approach in order to improve the BJP's performance in Telangana.