Shiv Shankar Singh challenges party’s choice of Purnima Das as candidate
Key Points:
• Singh to run against Raghubar Das’s daughter-in-law in assembly election
• BJP accused of favoring family ties over committed party workers
• Rebel candidate to file nomination on October 23, urges supporter turnout
JAMSHEDPUR – BJP leader Shiv Shankar Singh has announced his decision to contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming assembly elections.
The move comes in response to growing discontent within the party over its candidate selection.
Singh will challenge Purnima Das, daughter-in-law of former Chief Minister Raghubar Das, in Jamshedpur East.
The rebel leader criticized the BJP’s choice, questioning Purnima Das’s qualifications for the candidacy.
He argued that her selection was based solely on family connections rather than merit or service.
Singh expressed frustration over the sidelining of dedicated party workers in favor of dynastic politics.
The leader invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance against dynastic politics to highlight the contradiction.
He emphasized that his candidacy represents a collective struggle against nepotism in the political arena.
Singh questioned Purnima Das’s familiarity with local issues and the needs of the constituency.
The rebel candidate highlighted his years of selfless service to the community as his qualification.
He announced plans to file his nomination on October 23 at noon, calling for widespread supporter turnout.
Singh framed his campaign as a fight for the honor of overlooked and betrayed party workers.
A meeting held at Cable Town saw strong emotional support for Singh’s decision.
Veteran leaders from various BJP factions attended, pledging their support to Singh’s independent bid.
The gathering included representatives from Jan Sangh era, BJP Mahila Morcha, and Minority Morcha.
Local community leaders and social activists also voiced their backing for Singh’s candidacy.
The rebellion highlights a significant rift within the BJP’s local unit over candidate selection.
Singh’s move could potentially impact the BJP’s electoral prospects in Jamshedpur East constituency.
The situation underscores the challenges political parties face in balancing loyalty and familial ties.
This development may force the BJP to reassess its candidate selection strategy in future elections.
