By TC News Desk
Agartala, 18th August 2024: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively considering former Union Minister of State Pratima Bhoumik as its candidate for Tripura’s lone Rajya Sabha seat. This development comes after the party did not field Bhoumik in the recently concluded Lok Sabha election, opting instead for former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, who was already serving in the Rajya Sabha.
A BJP insider shared, “There are several names being discussed for the Rajya Sabha nomination, but the central leadership is particularly interested in Pratima Bhoumik. If she is elected, her presence in the upper house could greatly benefit the state.”
The situation is a continuation of brief stints in the Rajya Sabha by top Tripura leaders. Dr. Manik Saha, the current Chief Minister had to step down from his Rajya Sabha position to take charge of the state. Similarly, Biplab Kumar Deb resigned from the Rajya Sabha to contest the Lok Sabha elections.
Meanwhile, the BJP is preparing for possible changes within its state leadership. The current state president’s term is nearing its end, sparking discussions of a reshuffle. “There is a high probability that a new president will take charge, and the state committee could undergo significant changes after the Rajya Sabha by-polls,” said a source close to the matter.
By-elections for 12 Rajya Sabha seats, including Tripura’s are scheduled for September 3.