Sanghavi’s Dediapada Visit: AAP’s Praful Vasava, Cong Leader Raj Vasava Join BJP with 700 Supporters

In a significant political development in Gujarat’s tribal belt, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Praful Vasava and Congress leader Raj Vasava joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a public event held in Dediapada in Narmada district. The induction ceremony took place in the presence of Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who was visiting the region.

According to BJP leaders, nearly 700 supporters from both parties also switched allegiance, calling the move a “major boost” for the party ahead of the 2027 Gujarat Assembly elections.

Political Shift in Tribal Belt

Dediapada, a Scheduled Tribe-reserved Assembly constituency, has been politically significant in recent years, with strong competition between the BJP, Congress, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The entry of Praful Vasava, who was associated with AAP’s local organisation, and Raj Vasava from the Indian National Congress, is being seen as an attempt by the BJP to consolidate its position in the tribal-dominated region.

At the event, BJP leaders claimed that the development reflects growing trust in the party’s governance and development agenda among tribal communities.

BJP’s Stand

Addressing party workers, Harsh Sanghavi said the large-scale joining demonstrates grassroots support for the BJP’s policies in Gujarat. He stated that the state government has undertaken several welfare and infrastructure initiatives in tribal areas and that more leaders are aligning with the party’s vision.

Party sources described the induction as strategically important as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 Assembly polls.

Opposition Reacts

The Congress, however, downplayed the development. Party representatives stated that Raj Vasava was “not an active leader” within the organisation and suggested that the switch would have minimal impact on the party’s structure in the region.

Meanwhile, Dediapada MLA Chaitar Vasava of AAP questioned the timing of the political rally. He raised concerns that the event was held while the Gujarat Assembly session was ongoing and during examination periods, arguing that political gatherings at such times may not be appropriate.

Chaitar Vasava also alleged that political pressure and inducements may

have influenced the defections — claims the BJP has denied.

Electoral Implications

Political observers note that shifts in tribal constituencies can influence broader electoral dynamics in Gujarat. With tribal votes playing a decisive role in several seats, parties are actively working to strengthen their presence and local leadership.

While the BJP has projected the development as a morale booster, opposition parties maintain that grassroots support remains intact and that electoral outcomes will ultimately depend on performance and local issues.

The political realignment in Dediapada adds another chapter to Gujarat’s evolving political landscape as parties position themselves well ahead of the next Assembly elections.