ITANAGAR : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated senior party leader Tai Tagak as its candidate for the forthcoming Rajya Sabha election from Arunachal Pradesh.

Congratulating Tagak on his nomination, Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the decision as recognition of the veteran leader’s decades-long commitment to the party and its ideology.

In a message, Khandu recalled that Tagak remained steadfast during the BJP’s formative years in Arunachal Pradesh when the party had a limited presence in the state.

“He stood firm during difficult times and worked tirelessly at the grassroots to strengthen the party across Arunachal Pradesh. This honour reflects his loyalty, perseverance and dedication to the cause,” the Chief Minister said.

Expressing confidence in his capabilities, Khandu said Tagak would effectively represent the aspirations and interests of the people of Arunachal Pradesh in the Upper House of Parliament and wished him success in his new responsibility.

Tagak is regarded as one of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s senior-most leaders in the state and has played a significant role in expanding the party’s organisational network over the years. Associated with the BJP since its early days in Arunachal Pradesh, he is widely credited with strengthening its grassroots presence across several districts.

A long-time member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Tagak served as president of the BJP Arunachal Pradesh unit from 2013 to 2015 and has also held the position of Advisor to the Chief Minister. He is currently the patron of Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti, the state unit of Vidya Bharati.

The Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh is scheduled to fall vacant upon completion of the incumbent member’s tenure. With the BJP enjoying a comfortable majority in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Tagak’s election to the Upper House is widely expected to be a formality.