The Bharatiya Janata Party's West Bengal unit has announced a freeze on new member inductions, effective immediately, following its first formal organisational meeting after the May 4 election results. State president Samik Bhattacharya declared that no new members from other political parties would be accepted, and any functionary attempting such induction would face disciplinary action, including expulsion.
Warning Against ‘Trinamool-isation’
Bhattacharya issued a stern warning against what he termed the 'Trinamool-isation of BJP', imposing a strict prohibition on takeovers of opposition party offices and transport unions, including those for autorickshaws and e-rickshaws. He emphasised that anti-party activities, extortion, and operation of syndicates would result in immediate action. A disciplinary committee has been formed to monitor the conduct of party functionaries.
Change in Protocol for Party Banners
In a significant protocol change, Bhattacharya ordered that photographs of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari must now precede his own photograph on party banners. This aligns with BJP's national policy, which positions the head of government before the party chief.
Formation of District Core Committees
During a series of organisational meetings on Friday, the BJP leadership announced the formation of 15-member district core committees across Bengal. BJP central observer Sunil Bansal instructed district presidents to avoid unilateral decisions and instead consult these committees. Functionaries have been directed to constitute these committees by May 25. Bansal warned that while past errors had been overlooked, future organisational lapses would not be tolerated.
Focus on Upcoming Elections
Bansal also called on state unit members to identify 100 capable workers in every district to lead the party's work ahead of the upcoming municipal and panchayat elections. This move is seen as an effort to strengthen the party's grassroots presence and ensure disciplined functioning.
