In a strategic move, former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, engaged in a significant meeting with BJP national president J.P. Nadda in New Delhi on Thursday night. Mr. Chouhan, who had been in the capital to attend a wedding reception, posted on X late at night, stating, “Had a courtesy call on the national president of the BJP, Honourable Shri J.P. Nadda ji in New Delhi today.”
The meeting between Chouhan and Nadda extended beyond mere pleasantries, as the former accompanied the latter in his car to his residence, where discussions unfolded for over an hour. This development follows Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s recent visit to the national capital for meetings with Nadda and several Union Ministers, indicating a heightened political activity within the state unit of the BJP.
As the State BJP gears up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Chouhan, who held the Chief Ministerial position for nearly two decades, finds himself without a designated role since being replaced by Mr. Yadav after the last Assembly elections. Speculation arises regarding Chouhan’s potential candidacy in the Lok Sabha election, with Chhindwara and Vidisha being identified as possible constituencies. The latter holds significance as it was the seat Chouhan occupied before assuming the Chief Minister’s office in 2005.
Acknowledging Chouhan’s enduring popularity, particularly among women and the masses, a BJP insider emphasized his crucial role in the upcoming elections. The leader asserted, “Even if he is not the CM, he continues to be the most popular leader in the State. The party leadership is also aware that his hold over the masses will only benefit the BJP in the polls.”
While Chouhan’s political future remains uncertain, the insider hinted that decisions about his role would only be made post-elections, leaving room for speculation about potential cabinet inductions or organizational responsibilities.
