JMM Files Formal Complaint Against Allies and Opposition Over MCC Breaches
With the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) elections just days away, political tensions have escalated significantly as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has formally accused both its coalition partner Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of blatantly violating the model code of conduct (MCC). The party has urgently appealed to the State Election Commission (SEC) to take immediate action against these alleged infractions.
Specific Allegations Against BJP and Congress Candidates
Addressing journalists at the JMM party headquarters, central general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya presented detailed accusations. "The BJP-backed mayoral candidate, Roshni Khalko, is openly utilizing the party's official symbols alongside her allotted election symbol and publicly identifying herself as a BJP worker," Bhattacharya stated emphatically. "Furthermore, photographs featuring numerous BJP leaders prominently displaying the party symbol are being circulated without restraint."
Bhattacharya further claimed that Congress candidate Rama Khalko is engaging in similar conduct. This development is particularly notable because, while the mayoral election is technically non-partisan, all major political factions have strategically endorsed their preferred candidates. The JMM itself has declared support for Sujit Vijay Anand Kujur in the contest.
JMM's Appeal for Electoral Integrity
"I formally request the State Election Commission to acknowledge and address these serious violations," Bhattacharya declared. He emphasized that the JMM had maintained considerable restraint until now but felt compelled to speak out. "Ultimately, we decided to convene here, before our party flags and symbol, to address these critical issues concerning the civic body elections."
In a broader appeal, Bhattacharya urged Ranchi's business community and general electorate to prioritize the city's welfare. "Voters must transcend partisan lines and select the most capable candidate for the betterment of our state capital," he asserted. He highlighted the government's inclusive approach, noting that a delegation from the Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI) recently accompanied Chief Minister Hemant Soren to the World Economic Forum in Davos. "This demonstrates our administration's commitment to collaborative progress. Similarly, citizens should actively participate in this election for Ranchi's future."
Congress and BJP Counter-Allegations
The Congress party swiftly dismissed the JMM's claims. Party spokesperson Rakesh Sinha responded, "We do not believe that photographs of Congress leaders are being improperly used by our supported mayoral candidate. These allegations are unfounded."
Meanwhile, the BJP launched a counter-offensive, accusing the JMM of its own MCC violation. A BJP delegation, including Sudhir Srivastava and Ashok Baraik, submitted a formal memorandum to the SEC alleging that Bhattacharya's media briefing from the party office itself constituted a breach. "The manner in which he employed the party's election symbol during today's address is a clear violation of the model code of conduct," the memorandum stated.
This exchange of accusations underscores the heightened political rivalry as Ranchi prepares for its municipal elections, with all parties vigorously defending their positions while challenging their opponents' conduct under the electoral guidelines.
