JMM’s mahadharna a one-party show

RANCHI: JMM’s efforts to put up a united face of opposition against the ruling BJP does not seem to be yielding results. On Monday, even when it convinced long-time political rival JVM (P) to share a stage against BJP during the Raj Bhavan gherao, Congress gave it a miss, once again exposing the split within the opposition.
Earlier on February 9, when JMM announced a Raj Bhavan March against BJP’s alleged horse-trading in the state, most of the JVM (P) and Congress MLAs did not turn up.JMM’s mahadharna of Monday, however, got the support of JVM (P)’s chief Babu Lal Marandi and his deputy Pradeep Yadav, who were otherwise not keen about joining hands with the JMM in any political programme. After the party was deserted by six of its MLAs, JVM (P) is looking for opportunities to remain relevant in state politics.
Addressing the gathering near Raj Bhavan, leader of opposition Hemant Soren, said getting benefits of reservation in grade III and grade IV four government jobs was the basic right of local people and those falling under the scheduled tribe.
“Unless the government defines who the local people are, appointments against the vacancies would be grabbed by outsiders. But the opposition would fight vehemently against it,” he said. Soren also accused the Raghubar Das-led-BJP government of promoting horse trading and buying MLAs from other parties.
The issue pinched Marandi most who’s party has suffered two debacles—once before election and once after the results were declared. Almost half of JVM (P) MLAs of third Jharkhand assembly defected and joined BJP just before election and were given tickets to contest. Recently six more MLAs switched to BJP.