GGP's MP unit split wide open

Bhopal, Aug 1 (UNI) Even as a split in the Madhya Pradesh unit of the GGP -- the principal claimant of votes in Mahakaushal region's tribal-dominated areas -- is evident, a dissident faction is indicating formation of another party.

The dispute was sparked off with the removal of GGP state President Gulzar Singh Markam in favour of Mr K S Kumhare. Mr G S Markam and his supporter MLA Ramgulam Uike displayed a rebellious stance at a press conference here today.

GGP Founder-President Heerasingh Markam told UNI by telephone that the step that was to be taken in the party's interest had been taken and he was well aware of the reality of those protesting against and challenging his decision.

''The BJP and Congress tempted GGP leaders and prepared the ground for this split but the silver lining is that it unmasked persons of weak character,'' he claimed.

The Assembly has three GGP members and the party became the cynosure of all eyes by bagging Mahakaushal's tribal votes in the 2003 Vidhan Sabha election.

The split became apparent during the recently-concluded presidential poll when two GGP MLAs leaned towards the saffron party while the third favoured the Congress.

''My removal from the post is beyond comprehension as the party was working well under my leadership sans dissatisfaction among workers,'' claimed Mr G S Markam.

Accusing GGP MLA Manmohan Shah Batti and dissidents of joining hands with the Congress, he added that ironically Mr Batti was accusing him of allying with the Congress.

''I am not accepting this decision of the GGP President and will continue to work as state unit chief,'' Mr G S Markam stressed.

Expressing loyalty towards Mr Markam, Mr Uike added that party workers considered the former as their president.

''I and MLA Darbusingh Uike voted in favour of Dr Bhairon Singh Shekhawat in the presidential hustings,'' claimed Mr Uike.

Meanwhile, Mr H Markam said he was adopting a wait-and-see approach.

UNI