BJP's membership drive becomes key to Candidacy

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Local BJP leaders have been advocating a "self-reliance" strategy for the upcoming municipal and Zilla Parishad elections since the assembly election results. However, the party's immediate priority is meeting the membership registration target set after the state convention.

BJP State President and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule issued a stern warning: No membership, no ticket on Friday. He made it clear that those aspiring for candidacy in local body elections must first achieve their membership targets. "The party is keeping a close watch on who is actively contributing to the membership drive and who is not," Bawankule emphasized at an organizational gathering held at a lawn on Beed Bypass. The event was attended by OBC Welfare Minister Atul Save, BJP State vice president Ravindra Chavan, former MP Raosaheb Danve, general secretary Sanjay Kenekar, city president Shirish Boralkar, MLA Babanrao Lonikar, organizational Minister Sanjay Kaudage and other senior leaders.

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Internal tensions over membership drive

Vice president Chavan had stated on February 3 that contesting elections independently would be considered only after completing the membership drive. Within ten days, Bawankule reinforced this stance, warning office-bearers and workers that only those meeting the target would be considered for candidacy. This directive has sparked frustration among several leaders and functionaries. While membership registration has gained traction in Eastern, Gangapur, and Phulambri constituencies, it remains sluggish in areas represented by Shinde Sena MLAs. In Paithan, Sillod, Vaijapur, Kannad, Aurangabad Central, and Aurangabad West, BJP leaders are struggling to meet the required numbers.

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Organizational reshuffle in March

Bawankule hinted at major structural changes within the party starting in March. Key positions, including mandal officers, general secretaries and city presidents, are expected to see new faces.