Bhopal, Nov 09: Apparently angry over denial of ticket for December 01 assembly polls, senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Sartaj Singh today resigned from the post of state vice-president of the party but BJP leaders claimed the matter would soon be sorted out amicably. Singh, however, made it clear that though he has stepped down from the post, he would continue to be a "dedicated" member of the BJP and work for its victory in the coming elections.

"I decided to quit the post of vice-president over certain internal party matters and differences on certain principles. I will remain a BJP member and serve the party," he said. Asked about Singh's resignation, BJP General Secretary Shivraj Singh Chauhan sought to play down the episode saying "the matter will be settled soon in an amicable manner. There is no serious problem."

Singh's move came following allocation of ticket for Itarsi Assembly constituency to Sita Sharan Sharma, BJP's chief whip in the present house. Party sources said Singh was an aspirant for the seat.

Dissension in BJP over ticket distribution also came to fore here when supporters of a hopeful burnt the effigy of party candidate for Bhopal (North) seat Rameshwar Sharma. Followers of both the leaders also clashed in the city last night but were later dispersed by the police.

Bureau Report