Vikram Sharma
JAMMU: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is abuzz with activity as the party gears up for its organizational elections. Extensive exercises are being conducted to elect leaders for various organizational units at all levels.
The process for selecting office-bearers—presidents, vice presidents, general secretaries, and other allied posts—has already been completed at the booth level. However, the procedure for mandal-level appointments is expected to take a few more days. Once this is finalized, the focus will shift to electing leaders at the district level. This stage is anticipated to be both challenging and crucial, with a completion deadline set for January 15.
While the names of potential appointees have not yet been disclosed, speculations within BJP circles strongly suggest that the current JKUT BJP President, Sat Sharma, may retain his position. Credible sources within the party indicate that Sharma is the only serious contender for the role.
Sat Sharma first assumed the role of Working President following the resignation of Ravinder Raina, who stepped down after losing in the assembly elections. Sharma later transitioned into the role of full-time President, entrusted with leading the organization through crucial phases.
As per BJP’s constitution, organizational elections are conducted every three years. This year, January 15 has been set as the deadline for electing both national and state presidents. Although Sat Sharma must formally contest for the position again, party insiders assert that his candidacy is all but confirmed, given the lack of other competitors.
The process for electing district-level leaders involves greater scrutiny and coordination. Unlike the booth and mandal elections conducted exclusively within the party, district-level selections require input from allied organizations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). According to sources, these groups play a consultative role in shaping decisions for district-level elections.
However, this claim has been refuted by some leaders within the VHP, who maintain that their organization, along with the RSS and Bajrang Dal, remains non-political and focused on humanitarian agendas. They assert that these groups do not interfere in BJP’s internal electoral processes.
Sat Sharma has emphasized the democratic ethos of the BJP, both in public and within the organization. “BJP follows democracy in letter and spirit. Even the most senior person in the party must step aside for a more suitable candidate during organizational elections. This reflects the beauty of democracy within our organization,” Sharma stated in a recent address.
In preparation for the elections, Sharma has held several meetings with party leaders to ensure a fair and transparent process. He urged local leaders to conduct individual discussions with senior party members to gather unbiased opinions before drawing conclusions. Sharma reiterated the importance of unbiased and fair elections to foster internal democracy and strengthen the organization.
The ongoing electoral process is part of the BJP’s Sangathan Parv (Organization Festival), aimed at reinvigorating its internal framework. Sharma has directed party members to adhere to a strict timeline for completing the elections. He stressed the importance of maintaining impartiality to ensure that the best candidates are chosen for leadership roles.
The conclusion of the Sangathan Parv and the announcement of elected representatives will mark a significant milestone for the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir. With its focus on internal democracy and inclusivity, the party aims to bolster its organizational structure to meet upcoming challenges.
As the January 15 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the BJP’s preparations and the expected re-election of Sat Sharma as JKUT President.
