BJP,JD(U) engage in rhetorics over candidate for Palamu

Ranchi, Feb 14 (UNI) Two trusted allies of the ruling NDA -- BJP and JD(U) -- are engaged in rhetorics over candidature for by-election to Palamu Parliamentary seat.

The two parties, that stood by each other since 2000 when the state was created, even stated that they would not mind friendly contest if the situation arose.

The BJP has already expressed its desire to field its party candidate while the Janata Dal(United) did not show any inclination to be seen only as a supporting ally in the battle of ballots.

JD(U) president Jaleswar Mahto today reacted to the BJP's statement and did not rule out a friendly contest if the saffron brigade continued to stick to their demand.

Newly appointed state BJP president Pashupati Nath Singh on the occasion of his coronation recently urged party workers to prepare for the elections facing Jharkhand.

Mr Singh said the party would fight the by-poll tooth and nail.

The by-poll, date of which is yet to be fixed, has been necessitated as Mr Manoj Kumar(RJD) had to lose his membership from the Lok Sabha over cash-for-querry scam.

UNI