Ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20, the BJP has expelled 40 leaders and workers across 37 constituencies for violating party discipline. This decision reflects the party’s stance against indiscipline and rebellion, as they aim to maintain unity and avoid potential electoral losses.
State BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards those straying from the party line, warning that such actions could be detrimental to the party’s prospects. The expulsion orders were issued late Tuesday night by Mukund Kulkarni, the state BJP office secretary.
In the expulsion letter, it was stated that the individuals, despite holding party positions, had breached party protocols, prompting their immediate removal. This action follows increasing demands from party members and leaders for accountability regarding rebels during the election season.
Notable expelled members include Shrikant Karle, Sopan Patil, and former minister Jagdish Gupta, among others from various constituencies. With these expulsions, attention now turns to the BJP’s allies, Shiv Sena and NCP, to determine whether they will undertake similar actions against dissenters.
Earlier in the week, the BJP had also expelled 30 leaders from the party in Jharkhand.