Expressing deep disappointment at recent political developments and the Bharatiya Janata Party not fielding her from the Yamkeshwar Vidhan Sabha constituency, the sitting MlA Vijaya Barthwal said that “heights of opportunism” had made it appear as if the BJP was losing its character and face in Uttarakhand. Stating that all options were open to her, she deferred from stating any specific plan for her next step and exhorted the party workers to express their protest if they felt that there was any wrong in the party’s actions. Addressing the media at the Press Club, Barthwal said that she had been elected thrice by the public and party workers of the Yamkeshwar constituency. “I believed that blessings of the public matter in a democracy which is why, instead of camping in Delhi, I remained out here in my constituency among the people.
However, it seems I was wrong, as instead of according importance to the public, those who had pursued their claim with some people are now laughing at us. I had also worked hard for the lok Sabha election and had also got results, which probably became a reason for injustice with me,” she said. She further said, “Before announcement of the BJP candidates' names, I had met Garhwal MP and former Chief Minister Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri and asked him whether there was any substance in talk of his daughter being slated to get the party ticket to which he had replied in the negative. However, what happened next-- with the party not taking me into confidence—has given me a big jolt. Still, all options are open for me.”Asked about whether the Congress party had contacted her, she said that “all parties do generally remain in touch with strong candidates likely to win”.
Referring to former Congress MlAs joining the BJP she said, “What has happened in the BJP in Uttarakhand in the recent days is very painful considering the manner in which the BJP appears to be losing its character, face, walk and consideration which is a cause for serious concern. Contradicting the party ideology, the steps taken in the recent past makes one question whether the BJP has forgotten its ideology. Whats the difference between the BJP and Congress nowIJ,” she questioned. Complaining about the sentiments of the local party workers being ignored, she said that the situation is fluid. “I will discuss the situation with party workers of my constituency and then decide on the plan of action to take. I also request all the party workers that they protest if they feel any wrong has been done. I ask the party workers, people of Uttarakhand and top leadership of the party – is what's happening here rightIJ And, if it is not right then how can we remain silentIJ,”she questioned.