Jharkhand Elections: Ganesh Mahali resigns from BJP, vows to defeat Champai, Babulal and Sonaram

Mail News Service

Seraikela, Oct 20: Ganesh Mahali, a veteran politician and former BJP candidate for the Seraikela assembly seat, has officially resigned from all party positions, expressing deep dissatisfaction over the recent ticket distribution. During a press conference at Harihar Mall in Seraikela, Mahali articulated his frustrations and outlined his future political intentions, particularly his commitment to defeating BJP candidates across three crucial assembly constituencies: Seraikela, Kharsawan, and Ghatshila.

Mahali, who has previously run for the Seraikela seat twice, stated that his entire political career had been devoted to the BJP, working tirelessly for the party and its constituents. “Despite welcoming Champai Soren into the BJP and supporting the party’s ideology, I find myself sidelined. My claim for the Kharsawan assembly seat was dismissed in favour of Soren’s chosen candidate, Sonaram Bodra,” he lamented.

The veteran politician’s resignation comes in the wake of what he calls “grave injustices” stemming from Champai Soren’s influence within the BJP. According to Mahali, Soren’s manoeuvres have resulted in the allocation of three assembly seats to his son and associates, sidelining dedicated party members like himself. “I will not allow the BJP to secure victories in all three assembly seats,” he declared passionately.

Mahali’s discontent reflects broader unrest within local BJP ranks following Soren’s entry into the party. He recounted how Soren’s decision to focus on Kharsawan, coupled with the lack of support from the higher leadership, led to his disillusionment. He disclosed that even former Union Minister Arjun Munda had endorsed his candidacy for Kharsawan, reinforcing his belief that he was a strong contender for the ticket.

“The BJP has overlooked my dedication and hard work over the past two decades, despite my narrow losses in previous elections. This time, I was confident of receiving the ticket, but Soren’s actions dashed those hopes,” he said.

In light of his resignation, Mahali has pledged his loyalty to the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and is eager to embrace any responsibilities the party offers him. JMM workers welcomed him enthusiastically, garlanding him and celebrating his decision to join their ranks. “There is immense joy among the workers in the assembly constituency with my entry into the JMM,” Mahali added.

With a determined spirit, Mahali is now focused on mobilizing support to challenge the BJP in the upcoming elections, as he believes it is crucial for local representation to prioritize the voices and needs of the community. His resignation marks a significant moment in Jharkhand’s political landscape, as the battle for the assembly seats heats up ahead of the 2024 elections.