BJP leader claims Gandhi’s visit would boost party’s seat tally by 5-10
Key Points:
• Sarma mocks Rahul Gandhi, says his visit would benefit BJP in Jharkhand
• BJP to allocate 12-14 seats to allies in upcoming assembly elections
• Criticizes CM Soren’s proposed increase in women’s welfare scheme payout
RANCHI – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, serving as BJP’s joint election-in-charge for Jharkhand, took aim at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a press conference in Ranchi.
Sarma humorously welcomed Gandhi’s potential visit to Jharkhand.
"Rahul’s presence could increase BJP’s seats by 5 to 10," he quipped.
Meanwhile, the BJP leader criticized CM Hemant Soren’s recent welfare announcement.
Soren proposed increasing the ‘Maiya Samman Yojana’ payout from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,500.
"Why didn’t Soren implement this earlier in his term?" Sarma questioned.
He suggested the current scheme might cease post-elections.
Regarding BJP’s alliance strategy, Sarma outlined seat-sharing plans.
"We’ll allocate 12-14 out of 81 seats to our allies," he stated.
AJSU may receive 9-11 seats, while JD(U) is expected to get two.
One seat is under consideration for Chirag Paswan’s LJP(R).
"Final decisions on seat-sharing will be announced soon," Sarma added.
The BJP leader also addressed recent ED raids in Jharkhand.
He distanced his party from the raids, calling them unrelated to BJP.
However, Sarma highlighted alleged irregularities in the Jal Jeevan Mission.
"Local YouTubers report water not reaching homes," he noted.
The Election Commission is expected to announce poll dates shortly.
Political analysts view Sarma’s comments as pre-election positioning.
"Such rhetoric is typical as parties gear up for polls," an expert observed.
The exchange sets the tone for what promises to be a heated electoral battle.
