New Delhi

Newly appointed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president Nitin Nabin on Tuesday called upon citizens, particularly young people, to step into public life and play an active role in politics, saying meaningful engagement was essential to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India.

Speaking at the BJP headquarters after formally taking charge as the party’s 12th national president, Nabin assured party workers that their efforts would not go unnoticed. Emphasising organisational discipline, he said the party’s internal monitoring system was robust enough to recognise commitment and dedication at every level.

Addressing party leaders and workers, Nabin urged them to intensify grassroots outreach in view of upcoming Assembly elections in five states, including West Bengal. He said the BJP must work unitedly to safeguard the country’s cultural traditions and respond to challenges posed by demographic shifts in several regions.

Referring to Prime Minister Modi’s Independence Day address in August 2025, Nabin recalled the appeal made to young Indians to engage in public service. “Staying away from politics is not a solution. The youth must come forward and contribute positively to nation-building,” he said.

Highlighting the role of young leaders, the BJP chief said constructive politics driven by values and discipline was necessary to achieve the goal of a developed nation. He cautioned aspiring politicians against expecting quick success, describing politics as a long and demanding journey rather than a short sprint.

“There are no shortcuts in public life. Politics is a marathon that tests endurance and commitment, not speed. Those who stay connected to their roots and work consistently will make a lasting impact,” he added.

Nabin, 45, was elected BJP president following the conclusion of the party’s organisational exercise, Sanghathan Parv, which involved elections from the booth level up to the national leadership. A five-time MLA from Bihar, he has previously served as a cabinet minister handling portfolios such as law and justice, urban development, and housing. He was appointed BJP’s working president last month.

The new party chief encouraged workers to remain focused on booth- and mandal-level activities, stressing that sustained grassroots engagement was the backbone of the BJP’s organisational strength. “Every effort is being closely observed, and dedication will eventually lead you to the responsibilities you deserve,” he told party cadres.

Nabin also spoke about concerns surrounding demographic changes in states that are headed for Assembly polls, including West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry. He said these changes posed political and social challenges, but expressed confidence in the party’s ability to address them through disciplined leadership and hard work.

Taking a swipe at opposition parties such as the DMK and Congress, Nabin referred to the recent controversy surrounding Karthigai Deepam in Tamil Nadu. He alleged that certain political forces consistently oppose cultural and religious traditions.

“There have been repeated attempts to obstruct our traditions, whether it is Karthigai Deepam, discussions on Somnath, or questioning the existence of Ram Setu,” he said, adding that such forces should not be allowed to dominate India’s political discourse.

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Calling on party workers to remain vigilant, Nabin said the BJP must counter ideologies that undermine the country’s cultural heritage while strengthening inclusive and nationalist politics across states.