SHILLONG, March 8: The party’s underwhelming electoral performance has made many in the state BJP doubt the capability of its top leadership to woo the Christian voters in Meghalaya despite intense campaigning.
They have also resented the side-lining of the state leaders during the election process.
Party insiders said they are not happy with the role BJP national vice-president, M Chuba Ao played as the Meghalaya in-charge. They said he failed to remove the “anti-Christian tag” on the BJP in the state.
There are allegations that Ao spent more time travelling in choppers between Shillong and Tura than strategising the party’s campaign with local leaders. This has led to speculations that he may be removed from all responsibilities in the state.
Many in the party expected the BJP to touch the two-digit mark with exit-poll agencies also predicting 6-11 seats this time. The BJP ended up with two seats, the same as in 2018, with Alexander L Hek and Sanbor Shullai retaining their constituencies.
“The performance of many top leaders within the state and beyond should be assessed for accountability,” a disgruntled party leader said, declining to be quoted.
The BJP has never won more than three Assembly seats in Meghalaya.
