Uttar Pradesh, India’s largest state, is set to vote in its Assembly election next February, with all major parties stepping up campaign preparations. After the BJP-led alliance did not secure the expected outcome in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in the state, the party is under pressure to deliver a clear win this time.
Within the BJP, leaders in Uttar Pradesh claim that the earlier strain between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has eased. They say both leaders have recognised that prolonged friction could hurt the party’s prospects in the upcoming election.
Following Nitin Nabin taking charge as a national leader, the BJP recently reorganised its Uttar Pradesh unit. Key posts have reportedly been given to individuals considered close to both Yogi Adityanath and Amit Shah.
The party has also sought to maintain caste balance in its appointments, naming general secretaries from eight communities, including Rajput, Shakya, Brahmin and Pasi. Meanwhile, questions are being raised over whether the Ayodhya donation-related issue could impact the BJP’s electoral performance.
