Ranchi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is scheduled to elect its new Jharkhand state President on January 14, with acting President Aditya Sahu widely expected to be chosen unopposed.
As per the election programme released on Monday by BJP state election officer and MP Dr Pradeep Verma, the election process will span January 13 and 14. Nominations will be filed at the party’s state office in Ranchi on January 13 between noon and 2 p.m., followed by scrutiny until 3 p.m. The deadline for withdrawal of nominations is 5 p.m.
Although polling is slated for January 14 in case of multiple candidates, party insiders indicated that there is strong consensus within both the state unit and the central leadership in favour of Sahu, making a contest unlikely.
Currently serving as the acting state President, Sahu is known for his organisational skills, effective leadership style and strong grassroots connect. Sources said the BJP high command is keen to assign him full-time responsibility.
Union Minister Jual Oram, who is also the BJP’s Jharkhand election in-charge, is expected to reach Ranchi on Monday evening. A key meeting with senior leaders, including state BJP President Babulal Marandi, is likely to follow.
January 14 is considered significant as it marks the end of Kharmas and coincides with Makar Sankranti, an auspicious occasion. The party views the date as the beginning of a new organisational chapter in Jharkhand.
In addition to the state President’s election, over 15 members to the BJP National Council will also be selected, with several senior leaders from Jharkhand expected to find representation.
With inputs from IANS