Haryana, January 21:
In a politically crucial state like Haryana, which borders Delhi, political dynamics can shift rapidly.
Until January 14, Haryana BJP president Mohan Lal Badoli was eagerly awaiting his expected reappointment as state president. However, the emergence of gangrape allegations from a New Delhi-based woman against him and singer Rocky Mittal has thrown a spanner in the works. This controversy could derail his reappointment, prompting the BJP to consider alternatives.
Badoli, a prominent Brahmin leader, is credited alongside Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for the BJP’s historic third consecutive victory in the state’s elections — a feat never before achieved. The allegations, which Badoli has dismissed as “baseless,” have come as a major setback for him.
This incident has also caused significant embarrassment for the BJP, particularly as it faces the upcoming Haryana municipal elections and the crucial Assembly elections in Delhi, where the party is striving to break the decade-long rule of the Aam Aadmi Party.
With over 43 lakh new members joining the party in Haryana, the BJP is in the midst of a major organisational overhaul. Elections for booth and mandal chiefs are almost complete, and soon, the selection of district presidents will take place. Until the gangrape accusations surfaced, Badoli’s re-election as president seemed almost certain.
During his brief tenure of just over six months, Badoli played a key role in securing the BJP’s third term in power. His collaboration with Saini was seen as a game-changer, particularly during the October 5 Assembly elections, where they defeated a complacent Congress.
Now, in light of these allegations, other potential candidates for the top position have emerged. When Badoli assumed the role in July last year, other prominent names such as former MP Sanjay Bhatia, ex-minister Manish Grover, and Ajay Gaur were also considered for the role.
In addition, there are three senior BJP leaders — Krishan Bedi, Archana Gupta, and Surinder Punia — who are also seen as potential contenders for the post.
Badoli had previously served as the party’s general secretary before his elevation to the chief position.
While it is typical for opposition parties to demand Badoli’s resignation, BJP minister Anil Vij has also suggested that he should step down until he is exonerated of the charges.
With the Delhi Assembly elections and Haryana municipal polls approaching, the BJP high command faces a tight timeline to make a final decision on Badoli’s future. Whatever the outcome, the controversy has undoubtedly added a new layer of intrigue to the party’s internal politics.
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