The BJP’s first list of candidates for the Lok Sabha polls reflects a significant shift in its strategy, as it excludes prominent figures such as Pragya Singh Thakur, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, and Ramesh Bidhuri. This move signals the party’s emphasis on distancing itself from leaders who have faced scrutiny for hate speeches and Islamophobic comments.
Pragya Thakur, accused in the 2008 Malegaon bombings case, has been replaced by Alok Sharma. Thakur, who was out on bail on health grounds, faced controversy for her remarks on Nathuram Godse, whom she referred to as a ‘patriot.’ Her conduct and absence in her constituency contributed to her exclusion from the list.
Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, the two-time MP from West Delhi, faced criticism for incendiary remarks during the Shaheen Bagh protests and later called for a public boycott of Muslims. Ramesh Bidhuri, the South Delhi MP, came under scrutiny for using Islamophobic slurs in Parliament, despite later issuing an apology.
The BJP’s decision to exclude these leaders indicates a “clean-up” operation, showcasing the party’s heightened concern for its image, especially in the face of the INDIA alliance, comprising 31 political parties. Other notable omissions from the list include Meenakshi Lekhi and Harsh Vardhan. This move underscores the BJP’s efforts to present a more restrained and responsible image as it prepares for the upcoming elections.