Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad denounced the BJP’s decision to omit opposition‑ruled state chief ministers from the New Delhi BRICS summit, calling it anti‑democratic.
On Monday, September 14, 2026, Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad raised questions in Lucknow about the absence of chief ministers from opposition‑ruled states at the BRICS meeting in New Delhi.
Prasad said the exclusion reflects a "sign of the BJP's anti‑democratic mindset", alleging the ruling party deliberately did not invite states where it is not in power, aiming to weaken opposition influence.
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Why This Matters
The criticism highlights growing friction between the BJP‑led centre and opposition‑run states, raising concerns about inclusive federal governance and the politicisation of international forums. If chief ministers are sidelined, collaborative policy discussions at the BRICS level could be compromised, affecting regional development initiatives and the perception of India’s democratic credentials. It also puts pressure on the BJP to justify its invitation criteria ahead of upcoming state elections.