In a dramatic political shake-up that could reshape Arunachal Pradesh's political landscape, two influential leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party and the People's Party of Arunachal have crossed over to the Congress party.
High-Profile Defections Rock Ruling Coalition
The defections include Bihar Munda, the BJP's district president for Siang, and Bramto Krong, the general secretary of the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA). The joining ceremony took place at the Congress headquarters in Itanagar, where Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Nabam Tuki formally welcomed the leaders into the party fold.
Strengthening Congress Ahead of Crucial Elections
This strategic move comes at a critical juncture as political parties prepare for upcoming state elections. The addition of these experienced leaders is expected to significantly boost Congress's organizational strength in key regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
APCC president Nabam Tuki expressed confidence that these inductions would "strengthen the party's base and help secure a decisive mandate in the next elections." He emphasized that the Congress party remains committed to addressing the concerns of Arunachal's diverse communities and developing the state comprehensively.
Political Implications and Regional Impact
The defections represent a significant setback for the BJP-led coalition in the state, particularly losing a district president who commanded substantial influence in the Siang region. Meanwhile, the PPA's loss of its general secretary further weakens the regional party's organizational structure.
Political analysts suggest these moves indicate growing discontent within the ruling alliance and could trigger further realignments in Arunachal Pradesh's political equations. The Congress party, which has been working to rebuild its presence in the Northeast, sees these acquisitions as crucial for its revival strategy in the region.