BJP retains Rupani as Guj CM

Narendra Singh Tomar were holding a meeting of the state core committee on the CM’s issue. Mr Dhumal was also present in the meeting. Supporters of both leaders shouted slogans against each other’s leader.

In Gujarat, the BJP’s legislature party held a meeting to elect Mr Rupani as its leader. Party observers Union minister Arun Jaitley and national general secretary Saroj Pandey and state in- charge Bhupendra Yadav were also present in the meeting. Former chief minister Anandiben Patel, who could be promoted as a governor, also attended the discussions.

After Mr Jaitley announced names of Mr Rupani and Mr Patel as the next CM and deputy chief minister, the two visited the Jagannath Temple.

Mr Jaitley said that he had asked the MLAs to come up with more names for the two top posts, but as nobody came forward, Mr Rupani and Mr Patel were declared elected as the leader and deputy leader of the legislature party.

After his name was announced, Mr Rupani tweeted, “Team Gujarat is fully prepared and committed to fulfil expectations and aspirations of the people from all strata irrespective of their caste, religion, profession or practice. Together we shall head towards # NewIndia... To be able to work for the welfare of the people and contribute in all- round development of the state is a reward of the lifetime. Humbled and honoured indeed.”

Mr Jaitley said Mr Rupani will hold consultations with elected MLAs before forming the new government.