The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated veteran party leader Tai Tagak as its candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Arunachal Pradesh, ending weeks of speculation over the party's choice for the lone Upper House seat from the state.
Tagak's nomination comes after an extensive consultation process involving both the state and central leadership of the BJP. Party sources indicated that several prominent leaders were considered during the selection process, including Environment, Forest, Geology and Mining Minister Wangki Lowang, incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia, Pasighat West MLA and former Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering, former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki, former state BJP president Dr Tangor Tapak, Forest Corporation Chairman Nalong Mize, BJP Core Committee member Kenyir Ringu, state executive member Dotam Sora, BJP leader Nuney Tayang, entrepreneur and Kurung Kumey district BJP vice president Ha Tatu, and former IMC Mayor Tame Phassang.
Recommendations from Chief Minister Pema Khandu, state BJP president Kaling Moyong and other senior party leaders were understood to have played a significant role before the final decision was taken by the party leadership.
Following the announcement, Chief Minister Pema Khandu congratulated Tai Tagak on his nomination, describing it as a fitting recognition of decades of unwavering commitment to the organisation and its ideals.
Khandu said Tagak stood firmly with the BJP during challenging times when many were hesitant to be associated with the party and worked tirelessly at the grassroots level to strengthen its presence across Arunachal Pradesh.
Stating that the nomination reflects Tagak's loyalty, perseverance and dedication to the cause, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that he would effectively represent the interests and aspirations of the people of Arunachal Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha and wished him success in his new responsibility.
