Voices of dissent are growing in BJP over the induction of scam-tainted former UP minister Babu Singh Kushwaha. Joining the anti-Kushwaha chorus, BJP MP from Aonla Maneka Gandhi on Friday criticised the decision to induct the sacked BSP leader, who is a suspect in the NRHM scam.
BJP MP from Gorakh-pur Yogi Adityanath, who had publicly criticised the induction, warned the party top brass that if this “mistake” was not corrected, he would dissociate himself from the party. The RSS is also miffed over the induction of tainted politicians.
There were reports that Ms Uma Bharti was unhappy with the induction and had decided not to campaign in UP after January 9. However, she issued a statement denying the media reports. But sources disclosed that BJP chief Nitin Gadkari had spoken to Ms Bharti before she issued her statement. Mr Gadkari, sources said, is firm on his decision to induct Kushwaha.
Some state leaders feel Ms Bharti is using Kushwaha as a pretext as some people recommended by her have not been given tickets. Another BJP MP who objected was Kirti Azad. Sources said Mr Gadkari is in touch with leaders who have expressed displeasure over the induction and has told them that roping in Mr Kushwaha, an OBC, would help the BJP win OBC sympathy votes.
Wary of growing discomfort within, the BJP tried to clarify that “Kushwaha’s induction into the BJP is no immunity to him from the law. The law will take its course.”