Shehzad Poonawalla, one of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) most prominent national spokespersons, has reportedly resigned from the party, according to a CNN-News18 report citing sources. The report stated that Poonawalla submitted his resignation to the BJP's top leadership, citing personal reasons. An official statement on the development is expected shortly, although neither Poonawalla nor the BJP had confirmed the resignation at the time of filing.
A familiar face on television debates and a vocal defender of the Narendra Modi-led government, Poonawalla has been one of the BJP's most recognisable public representatives. Over the years, he has actively articulated the party's position on a wide range of political, social and policy issues, making him a regular presence in national political discourse.
The reported resignation comes just a day after Poonawalla reshared an earlier interview in which he reflected on his political journey and hinted at stepping away from active politics. In the interview, he said that after spending nearly two decades in politics, he believed he had achieved the goals he had set for himself.
"I've been engaged in active politics for approximately 18–19 years. I started at such a young age, so I've now completed 18–19 years in active politics. In terms of my capacity, I think I've reached where I aspired to be. In 2024 itself, I had thought that after Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office for a third term, I'd move away from active politics," Poonawalla had said.
He further explained that after the BJP secured a third consecutive victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he and his colleagues decided to continue working through several important state elections over the next one to two years before he eventually withdrew from active political responsibilities.
The remarks are now being viewed as an indication that Poonawalla had been contemplating his exit for some time rather than making a sudden decision.
Poonawalla's social media profiles have also drawn attention following the reports. On X, formerly Twitter, he describes himself as a "lifelong follower" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, though his profile does not explicitly mention the BJP. His Instagram biography, however, continues to identify him as the BJP's National Spokesperson.
Having previously been associated with the Congress before joining the BJP, Poonawalla emerged as one of the party's most effective media communicators. His sharp political interventions, articulate debate performances and consistent defence of the Modi government's policies helped establish him as a key spokesperson for the party.
The reported resignation, if officially confirmed, would mark the departure of one of the BJP's most visible media faces. It also comes at a time when the party continues to navigate an evolving political landscape following its third consecutive term at the Centre.
As of now, the BJP has not issued an official statement on the matter, and Poonawalla has also not publicly commented on the reported resignation. Further clarity is expected once the party or Poonawalla releases an official statement.
Leave Your Comment