Former BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has opened up about his decision to leave the party, saying financial responsibilities and the demands of full-time political work played a major role in his decision.
Speaking to NDTV after resigning from the BJP, Poonawalla said he needed to find a more stable source of income and was planning to explore opportunities in the private sector. He also pointed out that party workers and spokespersons are not salaried employees.
‘I Need to Pay My Rent’
Explaining the practical difficulties behind his decision, Poonawalla said that he still had regular personal expenses, including rent.
He used his landlord as an example, saying that being associated with the BJP did not exempt him from paying rent. His comments highlighted the financial pressures he said he faced while working full-time in politics.
Poonawalla said that working around the clock for political activities had also made it difficult to pursue other professional opportunities. He described the arrangement as increasingly unsustainable.
Resignation Was Considered Earlier
Poonawalla’s departure followed an earlier attempt to resign. He had first submitted his resignation on July 30, but the BJP leadership did not accept it at that time and asked him to reconsider.
He eventually submitted his resignation again and requested BJP president Nitin Nabin to relieve him of his responsibilities and primary membership.
In his resignation communication, Poonawalla cited pressing financial and personal circumstances and said he intended to move into the private sector.
Says Exit Does Not Mean Breaking With BJP Ideology
Despite leaving the organisation, Poonawalla has said his decision should not be interpreted as abandoning his political beliefs.
He expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Nitin Nabin and other senior party leaders. He also said he would continue supporting the Prime Minister’s vision and the BJP’s work wherever possible.
From Congress to BJP
Poonawalla began his political career with the Congress before becoming a prominent critic of the party’s internal leadership process. He later joined the BJP and became one of its recognisable television spokespersons.
His resignation now marks a significant change in his political career. While he has indicated that he plans to explore private-sector opportunities, he has not announced any immediate plans to join another political party.
For now, Poonawalla’s explanation places financial independence and personal circumstances at the centre of his decision to step away from active BJP membership
