BJP finalizes a few names for RS polls nominations
The upcoming RS biennial elections will be held on March 23. Fifty-eight MPs will retire. As BJP's state tally increases to about 21, it is expected to make big gains. The ruling party has already started finalizing its candidates. About 17 BJP MPs will retire, including eight Union ministers. Though most will be re-nominated, their representative states may change depending on BJP's performance.
Who have been finalized till now?
Seven Union ministers' and one general secretary's nominations have been announced. Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan, earlier representing Bihar, will now contest from MP. With just 52 seats in Bihar assembly, where 35 MLA-votes are required, BJP can win only one seat. In Gujarat too, with a tally of 99, BJP can manage only 3 seats. So, finance minister Arun Jaitley will shift to UP.
Here's the list
What is the significance of these polls for BJP?
All other leaders will contest from their respective states. These polls will increase BJP's tally to about 86 in the 245-member RS. It won't be able to pass constitutional amendment bills for some issues like simultaneous LS and Assembly polls. However, a strengthened RS position will allow it to push legislative reforms, like triple-talaq bill, land acquisition, etc.
