In a significant political shift in Jharkhand, former minister and senior JMM leader Dulal Bhuiyan formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday, accompanied by a large group of his supporters. The event unfolded at the BJP’s state headquarters in Ranchi, marking a major boost for the party’s outreach among key communities.
BJP state president and MP Aditya Sahu, along with Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, welcomed Bhuiyan with traditional honors, draping him in the party’s scarf and garlands. The ceremony drew hundreds, underscoring the growing momentum for BJP in the region.
Bhuiyan, a three-time MLA from the Bhuiyan community, described his decision as a unanimous choice of his society. ‘I will remain with BJP for life,’ he declared, praising the party for providing respect and justice to Dalits. He pledged unwavering loyalty to any responsibilities assigned by the party.
State president Sahu emphasized that BJP is not just a family but a party of ideology, committed to uplifting the most disadvantaged, including Dalits, exploited groups, and backward classes. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in integrating villages, the poor, and farmers into the mainstream of development.
Sahu criticized the Congress for treating Dalits and tribals merely as vote banks, contrasting it with BJP’s approach of empowerment. He pointed to the current state government’s alleged discrimination against Dalits and deteriorating law and order, while predicting a strong performance for BJP-backed candidates in upcoming civic polls.
Babulal Marandi hailed Bhuiyan as the voice of the Dalit community, stating his inclusion would strengthen BJP’s base right down to the grassroots. He accused JMM of neglecting public interests. Over 200 individuals, including Bhuiyan’s supporters, took BJP membership during the event, signaling a broader realignment in Jharkhand politics.