by Ashis Sinha
Ranchi: As the clock ticks down to the upcoming assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faces mounting uncertainty regarding its candidate list. Although party leaders have indicated that an announcement would be made within 48 hours, no official candidates have been revealed as of yet.
Recent reports suggest that an unauthorized preliminary candidate list has leaked, revealing significant internal discord within the party. Sources indicate that the central committee is likely to revise this list before any formal announcement, signaling a strategic selection process that aligns with the party’s broader objectives.
Complicating the situation is the involvement of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which has raised concerns about several potential candidates, leading to vetoes. This reflects the BJP’s cautious approach as it strives to maintain clarity and unity in its candidate selection. The RSS plays a crucial role in upholding discipline within the party, with its guidance often linked to enhanced party unity and public appeal.
As the BJP navigates these internal challenges, attention remains focused on the central committee to finalize a candidate list that could significantly impact its electoral prospects in Jharkhand.
In addition, the BJP, as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), has announced its seat-sharing arrangement for the upcoming elections. The party plans to contest 68 seats, while its allies will field candidates in the remaining constituencies. The All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) will contest 10 seats, including Silli, Ramgarh, Gomia, Pakur, Manoharpur, Lohardaga, Jugsalai, Mandu, Dumri, and Ichagarh. The Janata Dal (United) (JDU) will field candidates in two constituencies: Jamshedpur West and Tamar, while the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) will contest one seat in Chatra.
This strategic alliance aims to strengthen the NDA’s position in Jharkhand as election preparations continue. Further developments and campaign strategies are anticipated in the coming weeks.
Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the unity of the NDA, stating that the candidate list could be released at any time, possibly tomorrow or the day after. “One thing is certain: we will contest the elections as NDA and are ready to collaborate with anyone to make Jharkhand a developed state,” he declared. Sarma also noted that from today onward, communications will reflect the NDA’s unified stance, rather than individual party identities.
