In a significant political development in Mysuru, two prominent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have publicly disapproved of former MP Pratap Simmha's move to position himself as the party's candidate for the Chamaraja assembly constituency. This rebuke comes amidst internal party discussions over ticket distribution for the upcoming elections.
Wadiyar Emphasizes Party High Command's Authority
Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar made his stance clear to reporters, stating that the final decision on candidates rests solely with the party leadership. Wadiyar asserted that while many aspirants may express their views, the ultimate authority lies with the BJP high command. He pledged his full support to whichever candidate the party officially nominates, emphasizing that the collective goal should be a victory based on merit and performance.
This statement holds particular weight given the recent electoral history. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP denied a ticket to the then-sitting MP Pratap Simmha and instead fielded Yaduveer Wadiyar. Wadiyar went on to win with a large margin, a victory significantly bolstered by the substantial lead he secured from the very Chamaraja assembly segment now in contention.
Nagendra's Sharp Rebuttal and Call for Discipline
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, BJP Mysuru City unit president L Nagendra continued his criticism of Simmha. Nagendra, who represented the Chamaraja segment as its MLA from 2014 to 2019, stressed that ticket distribution is the exclusive prerogative of the party's top brass. He expressed surprise at Simmha's unilateral public statements, highlighting the importance of party discipline.
In a sharp rebuttal, Nagendra questioned Simmha's political record, alluding to his earlier failure to secure a parliamentary ticket. He pointedly mentioned that he has never sought court intervention against anyone, a contrast he implied with Simmha's approach. Nagendra reaffirmed that his priority is strengthening the party organization and noted that his own political career remains free from allegations. His focus, he stated, is on winning Chamaraja and the other two city constituencies for the BJP.
Focus Shifts to Party Unity and Strategy
The public remarks from both Wadiyar and Nagendra underscore a clear message: the BJP's candidate selection process is centralized and not influenced by individual campaigning. The episode highlights the internal dynamics and potential friction within the party's Mysuru unit as it prepares for future electoral battles. The collective emphasis from the current leadership is on discipline, organizational strength, and a unified front to ensure victory, sidelining any premature claims to candidacy.
