THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 25: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has written to the Election Commission of India expressing concern over possible horse-trading and attempts to influence MLAs ahead of the June 18 Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand.
In the letter addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner, JMM general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya stated that the ruling alliance currently has the support of 56 MLAs in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly, enough to ensure the victory of two Rajya Sabha candidates.
BJP Decision to Field Candidate Raises Concern
The JMM letter pointed out that the BJP, which has 21 MLAs in the Assembly, has publicly announced its decision to field a candidate in the Rajya Sabha polls despite lacking sufficient numbers.
The ruling party alleged that there could be attempts to influence legislators through “financial inducement, unethical pressure and intimidation” during the election process.
Demand for Strict Vigilance
The JMM urged the Election Commission to ensure a free and fair election and sought active vigilance by agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Income Tax Department, Central Vigilance Commission and Anti-Corruption Bureau during the polling process.
The two-page letter, issued by the JMM Central Committee, was signed by Supriyo Bhattacharya.