BJP unfazed by ‘hate campaign’

SHILLONG, Nov 6: The State BJP remains unfazed by the hate campaigns against it, focusing instead on development as its core agenda to secure a win in the Gambegre bypolls.
“This has been ongoing for a long time, but people are wise enough to recognize the truth. It won’t affect the party,” said Cabinet Minister and senior BJP leader AL Hek.
Hek added, “I am a Christian and a BJP MLA. I am a clear example of why there’s no need to beat around the bush. People have the freedom to choose which party and candidate they want to support.”
When asked about the NPP’s claims that the BJP was to blame for its loss in the Tura MP elections, he responded, “At that time, we were supporting the NPP. Now, we are contesting. These allegations have been around from the start.”
He emphasised that the party’s main agenda for the Gambegre bypolls is development. “The issue is development. If people vote for the BJP, we assure them significant progress. The party has implemented numerous schemes launched by the Prime Minister, and if people want to benefit further, they should support the BJP,” he stated.
Asked whether the constituency lacks development, he replied, “Only a thorough visit will confirm that. Saying anything now would be mere assumption, as I have yet to visit the constituency.”
Meanwhile, Hek dismissed the NPP’s allegations of the BJP and Congress working together. “The Congress has its own identity, supporters, and candidate, and they should fight their own elections. The BJP also has its own candidate and supporters and will fight its own battle. There is no question of BJP and Congress working together,” he clarified.  When questioned about the challenges in securing the Gambegre seat, he said, “If we didn’t have confidence, we wouldn’t field a candidate.”
Hek also informed that the BJP State President, along with several other leaders, is campaigning in Garo Hills, with additional leaders, including himself, leading efforts on the ground. The party’s candidate is BJP vice president and Tura MDC, Bernard N Marak.