How Did BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy Win the Constitution Club Elections?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rajiv Pratap Rudy wins by a margin of 102 votes.
- The election saw a record voter turnout of nearly 60%.
- Rudy has held the Secretary position for over 20 years.
- Dr. Sanjeev Balyan mounted a strong campaign.
- Other key positions were filled unopposed.
New Delhi, Aug 13 (NationPress) BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy triumphed over his party peer and former Union Minister Dr. Sanjeev Balyan in a fiercely contested election for the position of Secretary (Administration) at the Constitution Club of India (CCI). The election, marked by vigorous campaigning and unexpected political alliances, concluded with Mr. Rudy winning by a decisive margin of 102 votes.
A total of 707 votes were cast, with around 679 votes counted and 38 ballots registered, reflecting nearly 60 percent of the electorate—reportedly the highest voter turnout for CCI polls in history.
Post-election, Mr. Rudy commented, “Many statements made are incorrect, and I will provide my perspective later. However, it’s undeniable that our team has achieved a significant victory.”
The showdown between these two key BJP figures garnered attention not just for the intra-party rivalry but also for the energetic campaigning. Rudy, a five-time MP, commercial pilot, and former Union Minister, has held the Secretary (Administration) role for over 20 years. His lengthy tenure, during which he revitalized the institution from neglect, became a focal point, with some arguing it was time for new leadership.
Dr. Sanjeev Balyan, a veterinarian and former Union Minister, led a robust campaign.
Notably, first-time BJP MP Kangana Ranaut observed the intense competition, stating, “For the first time, it’s BJP versus BJP, which is rather perplexing, especially for newcomers like us.”
The Constitution Club, nearly 80 years old, boasts current and former Parliamentarians among its members. Other significant positions were filled without opposition: DMK MP P. Wilson became Secretary (Treasurer), Congress MP Rajiv Shukla won Secretary (Sports), and DMK MP Tiruchi Siva secured the Secretary (Culture) post as opposing candidates withdrew.