BJP's Purnesh Modi Elected as Gujarat Assembly Deputy Speaker
In a significant political development, ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Purnesh Modi was elected as the new deputy speaker of the Gujarat legislative assembly on Monday. The election took place through a voice vote on the inaugural day of the state's budget session, marking a key moment in Gujarat's political landscape.
Direct Contest Between BJP and Congress Candidates
The opposition Congress party, which holds 12 seats in the 182-member assembly, fielded MLA Shailesh Parmar for the deputy speaker position. This set up a direct electoral contest between Parmar and Purnesh Modi, highlighting the ongoing political rivalry in the state.
With the BJP commanding an overwhelming majority of 162 seats, the outcome was largely anticipated. Following the voice vote, assembly speaker Shankar Chaudhary officially declared Purnesh Modi as the winner, underscoring the BJP's dominant position in Gujarat's legislative body.
Background and Political Journey of Purnesh Modi
Purnesh Modi is a three-time MLA representing the Surat West assembly constituency, demonstrating his enduring political influence in the region. He succeeds Jetha Bharwad, who resigned from the deputy speaker post in December last year. Bharwad cited a "busy schedule" and other responsibilities as reasons for his resignation, creating the vacancy that Modi has now filled.
The BJP leader gained national attention in 2019 when he filed a criminal defamation case against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. The case stemmed from remarks made by Gandhi during an election rally in Kolar, Karnataka, that year, showcasing Modi's active role in political and legal arenas.
Opposition Dynamics and Election Aftermath
Notably, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which has five legislators in the Gujarat assembly, did not extend support to any candidate during the deputy speaker election. This decision reflects the complex opposition dynamics in the state, where multiple parties are vying for political space.
In his post-election remarks, Purnesh Modi emphasized his commitment to ensuring orderly proceedings in the assembly. He stated that his primary focus will be on facilitating constructive debates and discussions, with all members working collaboratively for the welfare and development of the people of Gujarat.
The election of Purnesh Modi as deputy speaker is expected to strengthen the BJP's administrative control in the assembly, particularly as the budget session progresses. This development also sets the stage for future political engagements and legislative activities in Gujarat, with implications for both state governance and broader political strategies.
