Ranchi: Former BJP leaders Dr. Lois Marandi, Kunal Sarangi, and Ganesh Mahali have joined Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Their switch highlights growing discontent within the BJP, particularly concerning internal party dynamics and candidate selections.
Dr. Lois Marandi, who previously served as the BJP’s state vice president, cited her disappointment at being denied a ticket for her home constituency, Dumka. She was instead asked to contest from Barhait, a decision she resisted. “I gave 24 years to Dumka, so how can I contest from Barhait? I know nothing about that place, but everything about Dumka,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to serving her constituents. Marandi expressed her frustration, saying, “I worked day and night for the party, but when elections came, I was told to contest from Barhait.”
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Kunal Sarangi echoed similar sentiments, revealing that he left the BJP due to frustrations over promotions and an atmosphere he described as rife with corruption and sycophancy. “In order to get promoted, the only parameter is how many ‘Ganesh parikramas’ you do each day,” he remarked, criticizing the party’s focus on loyalty over merit. Sarangi returned to JMM, stating, “This is not a rejoining; this was the platform given to me by CM Hemant Soren, where I can serve the people effectively.”
Their exits reflect a broader trend of discontent among party members, potentially undermining BJP’s electoral strategy in Jharkhand. With leaders like Marandi and Sarangi advocating for accountability and grassroots representation, their shift to JMM could reshape the political landscape in the state. As the election date nears, the BJP will need to address these internal challenges to maintain its position.