Amidst high speculation over the selection of new Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi has called an important meeting of the BJP’s MlAs in the State capital on Tuesday evening at 5.00 pm.
The Gujarat Government’s spokesman and senior Minister Nitin Patel said that agenda of the meeting is unknown. However, Gujarat BJP general secretary Vijay Rupani said that every three months Modi convened a meeting of BJP MlAs, this time it was delayed due to the general elections.When contacted, an MlA from Saurashtra region confirmed that the MlAs were informed for the said meeting through SMS. He also admitted that the agenda for the meeting was unknown.
As per the exit polls, it seems that the BJP-led NDA would form the new Government at the Centre and Modi would become the Prime Minister. In this context, many names are being discussed as the next Chief Minister of Gujarat. However, Gujarat’s Revenue Minister Anandiben is ahead in the race for the new Chief Minister. Apart from Anandiben, Modi’s close aide and Uttar Pradesh BJP In-charge Amit Shah’s name is also being discussed for the top post. Besides, senior Ministers Nitin Patel and Saurabh Patel are also in the race.
Some of the heavyweights in Gujarat BJP including former Minister Parshotam Rupala, Gujarat Assembly Speaker Vajubhai Vala and State BJP organisational secretary Bhikhubhai Dalasania have also been seen as the contender for the coveted post.Even if the MlAs meeting on Tuesday would be a routine one, people are expecting Modi to pass on some message on his successor. According to those closely watching Gujarat’s political scenario, there are three possibilities — clear majority, near majority or no majority to the NDA. In any eventuality, “Modi is likely to assure Gujarat MlAs his support and care for Gujarat and party’s Gujarat unit from Delhi. As it would be the last quarterly meeting of the current Chief Minister, he would also thank all his colleagues for their support,” said an MlA requesting anonymity.