Who is Pankaj Chaudhary, UP BJP's new president?
What's the story
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary as its new Uttar Pradesh unit president, The Indian Express reported. The announcement was made on Sunday, ending months of speculation over the key organizational position. Chaudhary is the 15th president of the party and the fourth Kurmi leader to head it in the state.
Nomination details
Chaudhary's nomination process and party support
Chaudhary was the only candidate to submit his nomination on Saturday, making his elevation to the position a certainty. He filed his papers during the BJP's Sangathan Parv at its state headquarters in Lucknow, according to Hindustan Times. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and senior BJP leaders were present at the ceremony.
Political career
Chaudhary's political journey and community support
Chaudhary, a seven-time MP from Maharajganj, is a prominent OBC leader from eastern Uttar Pradesh. He started his political career in local politics, winning the Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation election in 1989. The BJP's leadership decision this time is seen as a response to electoral setbacks in eastern Uttar Pradesh during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and considerations for the assembly elections due in 2027, as well as the three-tier panchayat polls scheduled for the middle of next year.
Community impact
Chaudhary's community and its political significance
The Kurmi community, which Chaudhary belongs to, makes up around 8% of OBC voters in Uttar Pradesh. Reportedly, it has a strong presence in the Eastern and Central regions of the state. The BJP is likely banking on Chaudhary's community support to counter the Samajwadi Party's "PDA" campaign that claims backing from OBC, Dalit, and minority groups.
Leadership support
Chaudhary's relationship with PM Modi and party leaders
Media reports suggest Chaudhary is close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the centenary celebrations of Gita Press in Gorakhpur on July 7, 2023, PM Modi visited Chaudhary's home without prior notice. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had also praised him as one of the most experienced parliamentarians in the BJP during his public meeting for Chaudhary during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.