Mandaviya to Lead BJP’s Charge in Puducherry, Meghwal Named Deputy Ahead of 2026 Polls

New Delhi: The BJP has kicked off preparations for the Puducherry Assembly elections by appointing Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya as the party’s election in-charge for the Union Territory. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal will assist him as co-incharge. Both appointments have come into effect immediately, signaling the BJP’s intent to intensify its campaign in the region.

Puducherry’s Assembly term ends on June 15, 2026, and political activity is beginning to gain momentum. The Union Territory, currently ruled by the NR Congress-BJP alliance, has a 33-member Assembly — 30 elected members and 3 nominated by the Centre, with five seats reserved for Scheduled Castes.

In the last Assembly polls in 2021, the NDA secured a majority, with the NR Congress winning 10 seats and the BJP bagging six. The Congress-led alliance managed just three, marking a major shift in the political landscape.

Mandaviya’s appointment reflects the BJP’s strategic move to reinforce its position in Puducherry, while Meghwal’s inclusion brings legal and administrative expertise to the table. As one of only three Union Territories with a legislative assembly — alongside Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir — Puducherry remains a key battleground for national parties.

With months to go before elections, the BJP is clearly laying the groundwork for a strong campaign in hopes of expanding its influence further in the south.