Raghubar Das Won’t Return To Mainstream Politics Of Jharkhand, Says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey

Nishikant Dubey, BJP MP from Godda, dismissed rumours about Odisha Governor Raghubar Das returning to Jharkhand politics. Speculation arose after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Mr. Das, suggesting the former Jharkhand Chief Minister might contest in the Assembly election.

Nishikant Dubey clarified on social media platform 'X' that Mr. Das would continue advising the new BJP government in Odisha. He also addressed rumours about Janata Dal (United) leader Saryu Roy contesting from Jamshedpur East in the upcoming elections.

Political Dynamics and Speculations

Himanta Sarma and Raghubar Das' recent meeting at Bhubaneswar's Rajbhavan sparked discussions about senior leader's running for his traditional Jamshedpur East seat. This seat had been his stronghold until he was defeated by rebel BJP leader Saryu Roy, who ran as an independent candidate in the last election.

Dubey stated, "There is no confusion in the BJP, as the central leadership has appointed Raghubar Ji as Governor of Odisha." He emphasised Raghubar Das's extensive experience and his role in guiding Odisha's new government.

Old Rivalries and Current Alliances

Mr. Roy, now with JD(U), expressed interest in contesting from Jamshedpur East again. However, giving this seat to JD(U) could be a significant setback for BJP, as it has been a stronghold since 1995.

In July 2024, Mr. Roy filed an FIR over irregularities involving Meinhardt Consultancy's contract for Ranchi's sewerage project in 2005 when Mr. Das was Urban Development Minister.

Possible Shifts and Political Strategies

There is talk of moving Mr. Roy to Jamshedpur West constituency, which he represented twice as a BJP candidate in 2005 and 2014. This shift could resolve tensions over Jamshedpur East while maintaining party strength.

In 2023, Mr. Das became Governor to facilitate Babulal Marandi's rise as Jharkhand BJP president. Many within BJP acknowledged that Mr. Das accepted this role reluctantly.

The rivalry between Mr. Das and Mr. Roy dates back to when they were colleagues in the Cabinet but rarely attended meetings together during Mr. Das's tenure as Chief Minister.

Mr. Dubey remarked on speculation diverting attention from corruption issues within Hemant Soren's government, stating that decisions made by both parties' leadership under their alliance would be final.

This political landscape highlights ongoing strategic manoeuvres within Jharkhand's political scene as parties prepare for upcoming elections amidst shifting alliances and historical rivalries.