Lobbying intensifies for second RS seat in State

PNS

Ranchi

Political activity has intensified ahead of the June 18 elections to two Rajya Sabha seats from Jharkhand, with the contest for the second seat emerging as the focal point of attention.

While Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Baidyanath Ram is widely expected to secure one of the seats comfortably, the battle for the second seat between Congress candidate Pranav Jha and NDA-backed independent candidate Parimal Nathwani has sparked intense lobbying and political calculations.

Both camps are working to prevent cross-voting and maintain unity among their legislators. As part of its strategy, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has shifted its MLAs to a Ranchi hotel until polling day. Sources said legislators would stay together and be taken directly to the Assembly for voting on June 18.

The NDA has booked accommodation for its legislators, including senior BJP leaders, at a city hotel. The move is being viewed as an effort to safeguard against possible cross-voting in what is expected to be a closely contested election.

A candidate requires 28 first-preference votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat. The ruling JMM-led INDIA bloc, with 56 MLAs in the 81-member Assembly, is comfortably placed to secure one seat for Baidyanath Ram. However, the contest for the second seat remains politically significant.

The NDA has 24 legislators, comprising 21 BJP MLAs and one each from AJSU Party, JD(U) and LJP (Ram Vilas). Nathwani’s victory would require support beyond the alliance’s official strength.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Bandhu Tirkey claimed that some BJP legislators were in contact with leaders of the ruling alliance, though he did not identify anyone. He expressed confidence that the INDIA bloc remained united and would ensure victory for its candidates.

The BJP dismissed the claim, describing the decision to keep legislators together as a routine exercise before an important election. Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi said many legislators were new and required coordination and guidance before the voting process.

For the second seat, Congress candidate Pranav Jha is relying on support from Congress, RJD, CPI(ML) and JMM legislators. Political observers believe that if the INDIA bloc votes remain intact, Jha holds an advantage. However, Nathwani’s entry into the contest has added an element of uncertainty, making the election one of the most closely watched political battles in Jharkhand.