Haryana’s political circles are buzzing after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) issued a show cause notice to senior minister Anil Vij, a seven-time MLA known for his outspoken nature. The notice, prompted by instructions from BJP national president JP Nadda, accuses Vij of publicly criticizing Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and state party president Mohan Lal Badoli, actions deemed a breach of party discipline but what exactly did Vij say, and could this be the end of his run?
Vij’s recent outbursts have been directed at both Saini and Badoli. He has been critical of Saini’s leadership, saying the CM has been constantly flying in an “udan khatola” (chopper) and isn’t paying enough attention to the suffering of the people. Vij also insinuated that Saini tried plotting his defeat in the 2024 assembly polls. Vij also said that BJP state unit chief Mohan Lal Badoli should step down till he is cleared of allegations of rape lodged by a woman in a case registered in Himachal Pradesh .
Furthermore, Vij has expressed frustration over officials not following his orders and a lack of action against those he accuses of working against him in the recent elections. He had even threatened to go on a hunger strike to advocate for his Ambala Cantt constituents.
While the immediate triggers for Vij’s criticism appear to be related to specific grievances and a perceived lack of action on his complaints, sources suggest a deeper issue at play. According to sources, Vij is fundamentally opposed to the “centralization of powers” in the hands of the chief minister.
The show cause notice, issued by Haryana BJP president Mohan Lal Badoli, states that Vij’s public statements violate party policy and internal discipline. The BJP is actively engaged in an election campaign in a neighboring state (Delhi), Vij’s statements potentially harmed the party’s image and unity, the notice said.
The notice highlights Article 25 of the BJP’s organizational Constitution, which states that taking a party dispute to any agency outside the party, including the media, and acting in a way calculated to lower the prestige of the party would amount to a breach of discipline. Vij has been given three days to respond to the notice.
The BJP now faces a delicate situation. Vij is a senior leader with a significant following, particularly in his Ambala Cantt constituency. However, his repeated public criticism of the party leadership cannot be ignored.
The state disciplinary action committee will review Vij’s explanation and submit its report to the state president within 15 days. The state president will then take action on the recommendation of the committee within a week.
The outcome of this process remains to be seen. Will Vij apologize and mend fences with the party leadership, or will he continue to challenge the status quo? Could this lead to Vij’s expulsion from the party, or will a compromise be reached?
What do you think? Has Anil Vij crossed a line, or is he simply speaking truth to power? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
