Following the resounding victory of the NDA in the Bihar Assembly Elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) morale is high in Uttar Pradesh (UP). After hoisting the flag of victory in Bihar, the BJP has turned its focus to the country’s largest state. Key decisions regarding the party in UP are likely to be taken in the coming days.
Uttar Pradesh is set to hold Panchayat elections next year, followed by the Assembly elections in 2027. The party’s entire focus is now on Mission UP. In light of this, changes may be seen in the Yogi government’s cabinet and the party’s organizational structure. A long-pending decision regarding the BJP State President could also be finalized soon.
1. Decision on BJP State President
The selection of the BJP State President for UP has been under deliberation for a long time, but internal conflicts within the party have delayed the final decision. The BJP is looking for a face that can effectively manage the caste dynamics of the state.
There is speculation that the BJP might opt for a leader from the OBC community for the State President post. Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, Cabinet Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, and Dharampal Singh are reportedly leading this race. Additionally, the party is considering a Dalit face like Ramshankar Katheria and a Brahmin face like MP Dinesh Sharma.
2. Preparation for Panchayat Elections
The Panchayat elections scheduled for next year are being viewed by the BJP as a vital part of its preparation for the Assembly elections. The party believes that the outcome of the Panchayat polls will impact the 2027 Assembly elections. After the setback faced against the SP in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is now taking every decision in the state with great caution.
3. Focus on SIR Process
Following Bihar, the process of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list has begun this month in Uttar Pradesh after a gap of 22 years. The party is keeping a close watch on this entire voter list revision process. To monitor it, the BJP will establish separate War Rooms at the Mandals, Assembly Constituency, and State levels.
Opposition parties are also active regarding SIR. Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav has already made it clear that if any irregularities occur during the SIR process, he will approach the Supreme Court. The SP plans to appoint PDA Praharis (guards) to monitor the SIR.
4. Potential UP Cabinet Reshuffle
Discussions about a cabinet reshuffle in Uttar Pradesh have been ongoing for some time. The BJP may include new faces in the Cabinet to balance the state’s caste equations. This decision was delayed due to the Bihar elections, but work on it is expected to speed up now. Last month, CM Yogi met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, National President JP Nadda, and Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi to discuss this matter.
