New Delhi: In a high-voltage contest that grabbed attention across political circles, BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy once again proved his stronghold by winning the Secretary (Administration) position at the Constitution Club of India. The fiercely contested election, held on Sunday, saw Rudy facing a rare and formidable challenge from within the party after 25 years — from former BJP MP Sanjeev Balyan.
Intense Contest Ends in Rudy’s Victory
The election witnessed over 1,200 MPs and former MPs as eligible voters, including some of the biggest political names in the country. Out of a total of 707 votes cast — 669 through in-person voting and 38 via postal ballots — Rudy secured 354 votes, while Balyan managed 290 votes. The final postal ballot round sealed Rudy’s win after 26 tense rounds of counting.
First Election for the Post in 20 Years
This election was particularly significant as it was the first time in two decades that the Secretary (Administration) post went to voting. The last such election was held in 2004, after which Rudy was elected unopposed four consecutive times. This time, Balyan’s entry made the contest high-profile, with both leaders campaigning extensively and even attracting cross-party votes.
The Legacy of the Constitution Club of India
Founded in February 1947 for members of the Constituent Assembly, the Constitution Club became an official hub for MPs after independence. It was formally inaugurated in 1965 by President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Over the decades, it has served as a center for political and social engagement — hosting meetings, press conferences, cultural programs, exhibitions, and sports activities.
Constitution Club of India Exclusive Membership
Membership at the Constitution Club of India is reserved for current and former Members of Parliament. Only they can vote in the Governing Council elections. The club currently has around 1,300 members, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi.
Beyond Party Lines
One unique aspect of these elections is that they often transcend party politics. Even in this year’s polls, leaders from different political backgrounds were part of the same panel — such as Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda appearing on BJP’s panel. Voting patterns showed that personal equations and regional connections mattered more than party loyalty.
With yet another victory, Rajiv Pratap Rudy has reinforced his dominance in one of Lutyens’ Delhi’s most prestigious power circles, showing that even after 25 years, his influence remains unshaken