Kirodi Lal Meena’s Resignation Shocks Rajasthan BJP, Sparks Speculation

Senior BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena’s unexpected resignation as Rajasthan minister on Thursday, fulfilling his promise to quit if he couldn’t secure his party’s victory in any of the seven Lok Sabha seats in eastern Rajasthan assigned to him, has sparked shock, surprise, and numerous questions.

The 72-year-old leader announced his decision at a prayer meeting on Thursday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave Meena, a prominent leader of the tribal community and a five-time MLA and two-term MP, the responsibility, leading to his vow. However, the BJP failed to replicate its 2014 and 2019 success, losing key seats like Dausa, Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, and Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, more than half of those assigned to Meena, prompting speculation about whether he would honor his commitment.

Jal Jeevan scam

An MBBS doctor by profession, Meena started his career with the BJP, left the party in 2008 over some issues, and rejoined in 2018. He has been a fiery leader of the Meena community, which holds significant voting power in eastern Rajasthan, leading agitations and exposing alleged scams, including the Jal Jeevan scam that drew central agency raids favoring the BJP.

A former Rajya Sabha member, Meena won the Assembly elections from Sawai Madhopur in 2023, signaling the Meena community to ensure the party’s dominance in eastern Rajasthan.

Pressure Tactic

With his resignation, questions arise about who will lead in eastern Rajasthan. His resignation has divided state BJP leaders, with some suggesting he is using it as a pressure tactic to secure a preferred portfolio.

Sources indicate that the BJP considered Meena a potential CM candidate after the Assembly polls where the party ousted Congress, but they gave him the agriculture portfolio, which he disliked. Additionally, they rejected his request for a Lok Sabha ticket for his brother from Dausa, and he was reportedly unhappy with the state Education Department questioning his transfer decisions. These issues contributed to his dissatisfaction, leading to his resignation, according to sources.

It remains to be seen whether they will accept his resignation and if a new leader from the area will emerge.