Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajasthan State President Madan Rathore on 3 September launched a sharp attack on the Indian National Congress (Congress), citing reported internal turmoil within the opposition party over ticket distribution ahead of the upcoming civic body elections in Rajasthan. Rathore argued that Congress's deepening internal discord would ultimately clear the path for a BJP victory.

Rathore Dismisses BJP Dissent, Cites Party Discipline

Responding to questions about resentment within BJP ranks over ticket allocation, Rathore flatly rejected any suggestion of internal damage. 'If no damage has occurred, where is the need for damage control? We have no shortage of capable workers. Those who did not receive tickets understand the principle of ‘Nation First’ and will continue to work with dedication for the party,' he said.

Rathore underscored that the BJP functions on ideology and organisational structure rather than individual ambition. 'The BJP is an organisation-driven party. Here, the organisation is greater than the position, and the nation is greater than the organisation. Even those who had hoped to contest on a party ticket are disciplined workers who will continue to work with full commitment to strengthen the organisation,' he added.

Women’s Empowerment Charge Against Congress

Rathore trained particular fire on Congress over an episode involving a state Vice President of the Youth Congress who was reportedly denied a councillor ticket in Jaipur. He said the incident exposed a glaring contradiction in Congress's political messaging. 'What could be more shameful than a situation where a woman worker — belonging to the very Congress party that raised the slogan ‘Ladki Hoon, Lad Sakti Hoon’ — is forced to justify her political right to a ticket by explaining what she personally did for an MLA?' Rathore said.

He questioned whether Congress distributes tickets based on merit, public service, and organisational commitment, or on personal equations and alleged favouritism — and demanded that the party explain the apparent gap between its stated positions on women’s empowerment and what is reportedly happening within its own ranks.

Bikaner Altercation Cited as Evidence of Factionalism

Rathore also pointed to a recent altercation involving the Congress District President in Bikaner, which reportedly broke out amid a dispute over ticket distribution. He described the incident as a symptom of deeper factionalism and grassroots disconnect within the Congress. 'The Congress’s internal discord, disputes over tickets and dissatisfaction among workers show that the party has lost touch with its grassroots base,' he said.

What the Local Body Polls Could Decide

Rathore framed the upcoming local body elections as a referendum on organisational strength and public trust. He contrasted BJP workers actively canvassing voters with Congress, which he said remains mired in ticket disputes and internal disagreements. 'The people of Rajasthan want development, good governance and strong leadership, not blame games and internal strife. The BJP is moving forward with this conviction,' he said.

The civic body election results are expected to serve as an early indicator of political momentum in Rajasthan ahead of future assembly contests.