Bharuch: The Gujarat BJP is under scrutiny after a bitter exchange erupted between Rajpipla MLA Dr. Darshana Deshmukh and Bharuch MP Mansukh Vasava.

The controversy began on December 7 when MP Mansukh Vasava held a press conference alleging “large-scale corruption in the political leadership and administrative system of Narmada district,” though he did not name anyone specifically.

Dr. Darshana Deshmukh hit back on Friday, accusing Vasava of indirectly linking her to Aam Aadmi Party’s Dediapada MLA Chaitar Vasava—a suggestion she said had defamed her.

“He alleged corruption without naming anyone, but hinted at a connection between me and Chaitar Vasava, which has harmed my reputation,” Deshmukh said. “If these allegations are not proven, I will file a defamation case. I am fully prepared to go to court.”

She also claimed that it was Vasava who had a personal connection with Chaitar Vasava, denying any link herself. Deshmukh revealed she had initially planned a dharna against the MP, which was later called off following state BJP instructions, suggesting attempts at internal damage control.

Deshmukh further criticized Vasava, saying, “He does not accept me as an MLA. Ever since I assumed office, he has been targeting me. I am also a BJP member, and as a senior MP, he should not speak about me this way.” She added that anonymous letters are routinely ignored but she would respond to any further remarks from Vasava.

Vasava responded on Saturday at Bharuch’s Circuit House, striking back at both Deshmukh and Chaitar Vasava. Recalling the Ekta Parade at Kevadiya Colony during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, he alleged political pressure at the highest level.

“During the Prime Minister’s programme, AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava pressured officials over expenses, while Dr. Darshana Deshmukh remained silent,” Vasava claimed. He also alleged that an AAP leader demanded Rs 75 lakh from an official, prompting him to speak out in the December 7 press conference.

Turning to Deshmukh, he said, “By making public allegations, she has harmed herself. Any grievances should have been raised directly or within the party forum.” He further suggested that fear was motivating both Deshmukh and Chaitar Vasava to target him.

The conflict escalated when AAP’s Dediapada MLA Chaitar Vasava openly backed Deshmukh, saying, “Darshana Ben, suppressed for three years, has shown courage by speaking out publicly. Mansukh Vasava dominates everyone, and we have tolerated him for years.”

With threats of defamation, corruption allegations, and visible strain within party ranks, the Bharuch-Narmada dispute has grown beyond a personal clash, highlighting the BJP’s challenge in managing internal conflicts before they spill into the public domain. DeshGujarat