Jharkand Politics: Several BJP Leaders Resign After Being Denied Tickets, Three Former MLAs Also Quit

Jharkhand Headlines Desk, October 21, 2024: In a significant political development, several leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Jharkhand have resigned following the announcement of the party’s candidate list for the upcoming assembly elections.

Among those resigning are three former Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), sparking discussions about the internal dynamics within the party. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the resignations, the leaders involved and the potential implications for the BJP in the state’s electoral landscape.

Introduction

The BJP’s recent release of its candidate list for 66 assembly seats in Jharkhand has led to a wave of discontent among party members, culminating in multiple resignations.

Notable figures include former MLAs who have voiced their dissatisfaction with the party’s decisions. The resignations highlight the growing political turmoil within the BJP, as leaders express concerns over candidate selection and party loyalty.

Satyanand Jha Batul: A Critique of Party Policies

One of the prominent resignations comes from Satyanand Jha Batul, a former MLA from Nala and ex-minister in the Jharkhand government. Batul has publicly criticized the BJP’s current policies, particularly the decision to field candidates who have previously switched parties.

He expressed his disappointment over the party’s lack of commitment to its core values, emphasizing that the selection of such candidates undermines the party’s integrity.

In his statement, Batul remarked, “The BJP’s approach to candidate selection is increasingly disconnected from the party’s foundational principles. It is disheartening to see individuals who have opposed us in past elections now being given a platform.”

Ramesh Oraon: A Move Towards Independence

Ramesh Oraon, the former MLA from Bishunpur, announced his resignation shortly after Batul. Oraon stated his intention to contest the upcoming elections as an independent candidate. His decision marks a significant shift in his political career, as he aims to represent the Bishunpur and Lohardaga constituencies independently.

In a press conference, Oraon expressed, “I believe in serving my constituents without being tethered to party politics that do not reflect their needs. My focus will always be on the people I represent.”

Arvind Singh: Frustration Over Seat Allocation

Another significant resignation came from Arvind Singh, known as Malkhan Singh, a former MLA from Ichagarh. Singh’s frustration stems from the BJP’s decision, as part of its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) arrangement, to allocate the Ichagarh seat to the AJSU Party. Disappointed by this development, Singh announced his intention to contest as an independent candidate, underscoring the tensions within the coalition.

“I cannot support a decision that disregards the will of our local voters. I will continue to fight for their interests, even if it means running independently,” Singh stated.

Menka Sardar: A Resignation and a Reconsideration

Menka Sardar, a three-time MLA from Potka, initially resigned after the candidate list announcement. However, following discussions with senior party leaders, she later withdrew her resignation. This back-and-forth illustrates the complexities and pressures faced by leaders within the party during this electoral season.

Kedar Hazra: A Shift to Jharkhand Mukti Morcha

The political landscape further shifted with Kedar Hazra, the BJP MLA from Jamua, opting to switch allegiance to the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) before the candidate list was released. His move underscores the growing trend of leaders seeking new platforms amid dissatisfaction with party strategies.

Ganesh Mahali and Bosco Besra: Resigning from Party Positions

Ganesh Mahali and Bosco Besra have also announced their resignations from all party positions, citing discontent with the party’s direction. Speculation suggests that both leaders may contest elections under the JMM banner, reflecting a broader trend of dissent within the BJP ranks.

Mahali, who narrowly lost in the Seraikela constituency in the previous elections, and Besra, the runner-up in Kharsawan, are positioning themselves for potential political comebacks with their new affiliations.

Kumkum from Barkatha: Independent Aspirations

Lastly, Kumkum, a leader from Barkatha, has resigned from the BJP and declared her intention to run as an independent candidate. Her decision emphasizes the increasing trend of political independence among leaders who feel sidelined by their party.

Conclusion

The resignations of several BJP leaders in Jharkhand, including three former MLAs, signal a turbulent phase for the party as it prepares for the assembly elections.

With increasing dissatisfaction over candidate selection and party dynamics, the BJP must navigate these challenges to maintain its electoral position. The developments raise questions about the party’s ability to retain loyalty among its members and the potential impact on the upcoming elections.

As political alliances shift and independent candidacies emerge, the landscape in Jharkhand remains dynamic and uncertain. Only time will reveal how these changes will influence the electoral outcome and the future of the BJP in the state.