Fri Nov 15 21:13:40 IST 2024: ## JMM MLA Dinesh Marandi Defects to BJP, Citing Ticket Denial and Threats

**Pakur, Jharkhand –** Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) MLA Dinesh William Marandi switched allegiances to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday, citing denial of a ticket for the upcoming elections and alleged threats from his former party. The defection occurred during a BJP rally addressed by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Littipara, Marandi’s constituency.

Chouhan welcomed Marandi to the BJP, promising collaborative efforts to improve Jharkhand’s development and welfare. He sharply criticized the Hemant Soren-led JMM-Congress government, accusing it of widespread corruption and poor governance. Chouhan asserted that the people of Jharkhand are ready to oust the current administration.

Marandi, who won the Littipara seat in 2019 by a significant margin, explained his decision by stating that he was denied a ticket and faced threats after raising concerns within the JMM. He highlighted his father, Simon Marandi, as a JMM founder and emphasized his long-standing commitment to the party before concluding that his defection was necessary for Jharkhand’s progress. His switch represents a significant blow to the ruling coalition in the state.

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