BJP and Ticket Denied Party

Free Thinker *

A Dili leader confided that Manipur politics is beyond the comprehension of the top brass. Sometimes it becomes very complex and paradoxical. The declaration of the party tickets may propagate a fluid and volatile situation in some Constituencies. We are talking about the ruling BJP. Everyone wants a BJP ticket. The one who just joined the party has also applied for a ticket.

At the time of their admission the leadership made it very clear umpteen times that there is no guarantee for ticket. They all agreed; there was no precondition at the time of their entry or re-entry. Now almost all are claiming party tickets.

Competent authorities probably look at three reports submitted to them; one is the official one from the party, other obviously from the Parivar and another one from some sources. Usually the party report carries the weight; however, in case of any confusion and differences they rely on other inputs.

This sounds good. But nobody knows how the high command ultimately decides on the candidature. Many believe that the list will not be seriously screened at the top. Perhaps they are mistaken; until and unless it is cleared by the Twine-Engine the list can’t fly back to Imphal.

One gentleman claims that he wants to launch a party; and provide a platform for winnable candidates. May be in the first week of February itself, it may be launched on Phairen Panchami.

He says, all the intending candidates who have been denied tickets by the big parties will be welcome. Time is too short to complete the formalities of forming a de jure political party; however an informal de facto Party named TDP (Ticket Denied Party) can be launched to jump into the fray.

The proposed nomenclature shows that anybody who has been denied a ticket directly or indirectly may come and join. And contest elections freely, democratically without any fear of extortion. If lucky they may form the Government with like minded allies. Ticket Denied Party (TDP) shall carry a good image, because it is a new party; it has no obnoxious old baggage. People will also know that they have not done anything wrong so far.

Robust intending candidates who have been denied ticket by the big Party may not give up. They must try their luck. People still want them to contest. Options are wide open for them – NPP, NPF, JD (U), RPI, etc., who can work together with the ruling alliance. But winning as an Independent candidate has the added advantage just like potato which can be used in any sabji.

After all, politics is the game of possibilities. If the possibilities are ample, you can do the right thing for yourself and for your team or workers or followers. But the only requirement is a right move in the right direction. Mind you, the number of flying voters always outnumbers the committed voters in every Constituency. You have got the point.

One mother openly said in front of the camera that she will vote for the one who offers her the most. Such a candid and frank admission is not found anywhere in the world, not even in the USA where their President is scolded left and right, day in and day out with all kinds of filthy language.

American democracy is perhaps the most liberal one where individual freedom and freedom of expression is given utmost importance than the prestige and pride of their President. My unsolicited advice to all potential candidates who have been denied tickets is that each one of you may contest as an independent or on TDP (Ticket Denied Party) ticket and later join the ruling combination.

You will get the first opportunity to be part of the next Government if elected; because they will still need you. The only problem was, they could not accommodate you because of some Parivaric issues. Even if BJP wins a comfortable number they will welcome you for stability.

My election predictions have always been wrong since the very beginning. But this time one thing is certain that TDP will win a good number of seats. I really don’t want to mention the Constituencies where TDP (Ticket Denied Party) will do exceedingly well. Hills and valley put together may cross double digits. TDP is offering me the post of spokesperson.

I have politely declined the offer by telling them that I am already the spokesperson of the frustrated laity. Be the winner, who knows you may become the next CM or at least a Cabinet Minister. The major players have lost their bonhomie connection with the people.

Take advantage of this opportunistic situation and get elected as an MLA. Sell, mortgage, borrow and invest on the people, they will do the needful. Everything will be reimbursed; just come out with flying colours.

State leaders are not sapient by submitting the list early; they could have waited for another week or so; they could have done the hatching here itself. In the last few days Dili has done the hatching of the doubtful eggs. Election brings the biggest bargaining jamboree. No hard feelings please.