New Delhi, Feb 28: The BJP today ruled out change of leadership in Jharkhand but summoned state Chief Minister Babulal Marandi to the national capital for talks following revolt against him by his ministerial colleagues belonging to BJP allies. "We have asked the chief minister to come here tomorrow to review the political situation in the state," BJP President M Venkaiah Naidu told reporters here. However, he ruled out the possibility of the party asking Marandi to step down to resolve the problem.
The ministers belonging to Samata Party and JD (U) have been demanding the resignation of Marandi refusing to heed their central leadership`s advice not to precipitate a crisis. Revenue Minister Madhu Singh, Excise Minister Ramesh Singh Munda, Phed Minister Jaleswar Mahato, Urban Development Minister Baccha Singh (all Samata) and Energy Minister Lalchand Mahato (JD-U) have been spearheading "oust Marandi" campaign. The group of five is demanding Marandi`s ouster over "non-compliance" of the rules of executive business and cabinet`s nod of reshuffle of class 1 officers.
Bureau Report