In a significant political shift ahead of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, several leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including Lois Marandi and Kunal Sarangi, have joined the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). In response, Pratul Shah Deo, spokesperson for the Jharkhand BJP, characterized these departures as indicative of individuals who are "dejected and rejected" and seeking opportunities elsewhere.
BJP's Stance on Departures
Shah Deo defended the BJP's overall strength, asserting that while only a select few from its extensive cadre are chosen to contest elections, the party remains committed to the development of Jharkhand. He stated:
“"These dejected and rejected people are joining (other parties), those who did not get tickets in the BJP. There are crores of workers in the BJP, and only a few of them get the opportunity to contest elections. Some of them were fortunate to have been MLAs at one point in time or have contested elections. They were given an opportunity by the party; still, if such ungrateful people are going to other parties, then it means it is more important for them to be MLAs. They have forgotten that the BJP can develop this state."
Shah Deo emphasized the nature of the BJP as a cadre-based party, noting that the arrival and departure of members is a common occurrence. He remarked that the party's core strength lies in its dedicated workers:
“"The ultimate soldier is the cadre who contests elections from booth level to higher. Candidates are decided by the CEC; the remaining battle is fought by workers. Our workers are still intact."
