Ashwani Sharma returns as Punjab BJP working president; senior leaders see shift in party dynamics

AMRITSAR: The appointment of Ashwani Sharma as the Working President of the Punjab BJP has stirred expectations of a structural shake-up in the state unit. While the changes may seem to be under the guidance of current state president Sunil Jakhar, insiders believe the move could indicate a deeper shift in the party’s internal power dynamics.Sharma’s return has also led to speculation about whether the BJP high command is seeking to challenge Jakhar’s leadership, or possibly preparing him for a bigger role in the Central government, considering his political experience.Senior BJP leader Dr Avtar Singh said that while Jakhar is a respected figure, his past with the Congress may have influenced his leadership style. “It seems he couldn't run the state unit with the distinct approach expected of a BJP leader,” he said, adding that Sharma’s familiarity with Punjab politics made him a natural choice to manage the party effectively.Former Amritsar BJP General Secretary Somdev Sharma also weighed in, stating that internal tensions could stem from differing leadership roles within the two parties. “In the Congress, the state president is seen as the ultimate authority, but that’s not the case in the BJP. Here, the General Secretary (Organisation), or Sangathan Maha Mantri, holds greater influence than the state president. This structural difference likely led to internal friction and may have prompted the party high command to appoint Ashwani Sharma to restore balance and direction within the Punjab unit.

”While a major reshuffle is not expected, aside from a few minor changes, sources suggest the real impact will be on BJP workers in the state who will take note of the leadership message.Meanwhile, during a meeting in Amritsar on Thursday, local leaders decided to approach Sharma with a request to launch a campaign seeking justice for the thousands of Hindus killed during the height of militancy in Punjab. “The BJP has consistently demanded capital punishment for Congress leaders allegedly involved in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, but it remains silent on delivering justice to the thousands of Hindus who were killed during the years of terrorism in Punjab. Shockingly, some of the perpetrators have openly boasted about their involvement in these killings, yet the BJP has never uttered a word in response,” Somdev Sharma said.