Nabam Vivek’s entry to PPA may reduce BJP’s numbers in Arunachal Pradesh assembly

DOIMUKH: In a significant development ahead of assembly elections in Arunachal Pradesh, Nabam Vivek, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson in Arunachal Pradesh, quit the saffron party and emerged as the People's Party of Arunachal's (PPA) nominee for the Doimukh legislative assembly constituency (LAC).

Nabam Vivek's move has sparked speculation about the ruling party's potential loss of support in the upcoming assembly.

Expressing his dismay over the BJP's decision to deny him a party ticket, Vivek highlighted the overwhelming backing he received from BJP workers, who resigned en masse in solidarity with him.

He revealed that a pre-poll survey conducted by the BJP's election in-charge in Arunachal Pradesh had shown him leading by a significant margin against the incumbent MLA.

However, despite this support, the BJP high command opted to retain the sitting MLA, prompting Vivek's departure.

Renowned as a popular leader in the Doimukh LAC of Arunachal Pradesh, Vivek officially resigned from the BJP on March 13 and joined the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA), emphasizing the importance of regional politics in advocating for the rights of tribal communities.

He stressed that regional parties play a crucial role in representing the interests of the state's diverse population.

Under the banner of “Team Vivek Mission 2024”, Vivek has redirected his political focus towards regionalism, promoting entrepreneurship among educated youth through skill development to combat unemployment. He advocates for empowering women through self-help groups (SHGs) and aims to address boundary disputes with neighbouring Assam, particularly in the Doimukh LAC of Arunachal Pradesh.

Vivek expressed optimism about the PPA's electoral prospects, targeting 25 seats in the Arunachal Pradesh assembly.

He envisions the PPA securing 10 to 15 seats, paving the way for a coalition government with the BJP, which is part of the Northeast Democratic Alliance (NEDA).