The BJP has announced eight candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, with the selection reflecting representation from Backward Classes, Dalits, Brahmins and the Thakur community.
The candidates are minister Dharampal Singh, Radhakant Ojha, Prakash Pal, former MLC Vidyasagar Sonkar, Gopi Krishna Pandey, Ram Pratap Singh Chauhan, former Lok Sabha MP Priyanka Singh Rawat and Shruti Gangwar, the daughter of Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar.
Ten Rajya Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh will go to polls on October 16. The BJP is assured of victory on seven seats and is seeking to secure an eighth seat as well.
Union Minister Hardeep Puri, whose name had been expected, does not figure in the announcement. Union Minister of State BL Verma and Smriti Irani, who were also considered likely candidates, have not been included. Hardeep Puri's exclusion has also pointed to a possible reshuffle at the Centre.
The list includes several community-based representatives. Dharampal Singh belongs to the Lodh community, while Ojha and Gopi Krishna Pandey represent the Brahmin community. Prakash Pal heads the BJP's OBC Morcha in Uttar Pradesh, and Shruti Gangwar is also from the OBC community.
Vidyasagar Sonkar and Priyanka Singh Rawat are from the Dalit community, while Ram Singh Chauhan belongs to the Thakur community.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath congratulated the candidates and wished them success in the election.
Follow us
