Former Gujarat Congress President Arjun Modhwadia officially joined the BJP on Tuesday, marking his departure from the Congress party a day prior.
Modhwadia, who previously served as the Gujarat Congress president and held the position of the leader of the opposition, transitioned to the BJP alongside two other former MLAs, Amberish Der, and Mulubhai Kandoriya, during a formal ceremony.
Their induction into the BJP was overseen by CR Patil, the President of the BJP Gujarat State unit.
Modhwadia's decision to leave the Congress came after four decades of association with the party. He tendered his resignation to the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha speaker on Monday, expressing his sense of "helplessness" in contributing effectively to public service within the party framework.
In a communication addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Modhwadia articulated his decision, emphasizing his desire to disengage from all roles and responsibilities within the Indian National Congress.
He highlighted a particular instance of dissent, citing his objection to the Congress's refusal to participate in the inauguration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22.
The timing of Modhwadia's defection, coupled with a notable surge in similar transitions ahead of the impending 2024 general election, underscores a prevailing trend. This trend not only bolsters the BJP's ranks but also poses a significant challenge to opposition parties, as they grapple with diminishing support and influence.
