Parachute candidates spark revolt in Bihar BJP

Discontent brews as BJP’s outsider nominees face backlash from local workers.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have to step in to secure the victory of the party's candidates in multiple constituencies in Bihar, which is shaping up to be one of the toughest electoral contests the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has faced in the state.

After the BJP announced its final list of 18 candidates on Wednesday, voices of discontent have emerged within the organisation against multiple “parachute” nominees — candidates perceived as outsiders brought in by the leadership, bypassing long-serving local workers. Many in the party believe that this approach has “robbed the rightful chance” of dedicated grassroots members.

The strongest protests are being witnessed in Alinagar, a constituency in Darbhanga district, where the BJP has nominated 25-year-

old Maithili folk singer Maithili Thakur. Thakur, who joined the BJP only last week, was granted a ticket despite opposition from local leaders, including Sanjay Kumar Singh alias Pappu Singh, the general secretary (Organisation) of the BJP in Darbhanga. Singh, whose name was the only one recommended by the district unit to the central leadership, has publicly criticised the decision.