Arunachal Pradesh is witnessing a significant political upheaval as thousands of residents from all 13 districts of the Arunachal East Parliamentary constituency gathered in Tezu, the headquarters town of Lohit district, to express their unanimous support for BJP youth leader Nuney Tayang as their new MP candidate. The constituency, currently represented by Tapir Gao, former National General Secretary of the BJP and former State President, is gearing up for a potential leadership change. Tapir Gao, who won the MP seat in 2004 but lost to Ninong Ering of the Congress party in 2009, regained victory in 2019 after a decade-long gap. However, the clamor for new leadership within the constituency suggests a shifting political landscape.
Addressing the media, Nuney Tayang acknowledged Tapir Gao’s contribution but emphasized the constituency’s desire for fresh leadership. He asserted his democratic right to seek the party ticket, expressing confidence that the party leadership would consider the prevailing anti-incumbency sentiment and nominate a new candidate like himself. Tayang highlighted pressing issues such as border disputes with China and the abduction of youth that need effective representation in the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Arunachal Pradesh is grappling with internal dissent and challenges over ticket distribution ahead of the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
In a bid to counter anti-incumbency sentiments, the BJP-led state government has created two new districts, but discontent within the party ranks persists. Party leaders acknowledge a growing dissatisfaction with the candidature of incumbent MPs, indicating a significant rebellion within the party. Protests by a section of party workers further underscore the brewing discontent. With the election campaign in full swing and only a few days left before voting, Arunachal Pradesh is bracing for a fiercely contested battle reminiscent of the challenges faced in the previous elections.
