Triangular Contest Emerges in Potka as Rebel Leader Joins Race

Rebel Congress leader Subodh Sardar enters Potka race, intensifying contest against MLA Sanjib Sardar.

Key Points:

– Subodh Sardar, former Congress leader, runs as an independent candidate.

– Sardar accuses Sanjib Sardar of land-grabbing in tribal areas.

– Potka sees a tight three-way race, challenging the current MLA’s standing.

JAMSHEDPUR – A close three-way contest has developed in Potka constituency with former Congress leader Subodh Sardar entering the race as an independent candidate, intensifying competition for incumbent MLA Sanjib Sardar.

Subodh Sardar, who previously led Potka’s Bhumij community, received over 28,000 votes in a prior election. This year, he aims to secure support from the same base, which could shake up the election dynamics. Running as a dissident after feeling sidelined by MLA Sanjib Sardar, Subodh Sardar criticized the incumbent for neglecting Congress supporters over the past five years.

In a statement, Sardar accused Sanjib Sardar of seizing tribal and Bhumij lands instead of focusing on community welfare. "For five years, the MLA has worked only to grab the land of tribal communities," he claimed, adding that Sanjib Sardar has failed to allocate funds for visible development. According to Sardar, the MLA must account for the use of Rs. 22 crore from the constituency fund, which he said has not translated into real projects for residents.

Sardar’s entry is expected to split the vote, creating a tight race. He expressed confidence in voter support, stating, "This time, the people of Potka will teach Sanjib Sardar a lesson." His candidacy brings a unique challenge for the sitting MLA, as Sardar seeks to appeal to both Congress loyalists and tribal voters.