Bypoll: Candidate name not out, BJP starts campaigning

While a few leaders in the BJP have expressed concern over the “delay” in announcing the name of the candidate for Ludhiana (West) Assembly bypoll, most of the core committee members appear “cool” on the issue, maintaining that the candidate can be anyone, but the voter will vote only for the lotus.

One of the core committee members of the BJP who did not want to be named said that those attached with the party in real sense believe that the party would choose a loyal person over many others. “They can declare the candidate anytime, but the members have started working at the grassroots level. I have been given a ward and I make sure that I visit it on a daily basis, talk to the people and look for their issues, etc., though I am not in any race for the ticket. It is the loyalty towards the party and it can choose anyone,” said the leader.

Meanwhile, the general secretary of the state BJP, Shri Nevasu, who was in city today, said that he would be there in Ludhiana till July 12, when the elections will get over. Asked about the delay in declaring the name of the candidate, he said that they were not bothered because the party leaders, supporters and workers had already started campaigning at the grassroots level.

“After seventh of this month, the name would be declared anytime,” said the general secretary, adding that he had no idea who would be the candidate. “We had sent the names, now the ball is in the party’s court and we will accept the decision,” he added.

“We are keeping an eye on everything and we will win,” said the senior leader of the party, adding that “imported” faces will not be given preference by the party.

Ludhiana