Twelve members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have joined the Indian National Congress, expressing deep dissatisfaction with their former party. The announcement was made at a program held at the Mokokchung District Congress Committee office, where the new members were officially welcomed by Congress leaders, led by Nagaland MP Supongmeren Jamir.
The members, who held various positions within the BJP, included the former Vice President of BJP Mokokchung District, the Treasurer, former Mahila President, BJP Mokokchung, and the former VP, Mahila, BJP Mokokchung District, among others.
Yanger Lemtur, Former Vice President of BJP Mokokchung District, did not mince words when discussing their reasons for leaving the BJP. Lemtur stated that they were unaware of their removal from the party, adding that there was not even a handover program announcing their dismissal.
“There are two groups among us. Some of us were removed without our knowledge. Some of us were removed while still holding working positions,” Lemtur said. He also said in a lighter note that being a BJP member had made it “difficult” for him to go to church due to the stigma surrounding the BJP lately. However, Lemtur pledged their support for Nagaland MP Supongmeren Jamir, vowing to ensure a ruling Congress in 2028.
Arenla, former VP (Women Wing) BJP Mokokchung District, pledged to be a dedicated Congress worker.
Nagaland Congress MP Supongmeren Jamir, seizing the opportunity to strengthen the party’s ranks, laid out several key principles and policies to address the concerns of the newly joined and the broader electorate.
Speaking at the program, Jamir welcomed the 12 members into what he called the “Humble Congress Family.” According to Jamir, the term “humble” reflects the 21 years during which the party, without a single MLA, has seen its workers remain loyal and dedicated.
Jamir outlined the party’s objective, stating that their target is to win the 2028 General Assembly election. He expressed confidence that Congress units have been successfully established in all constituencies within the Mokokchung District.
Aiming at 2028, Jamir also highlighted the requirement for all new members to purchase an “eligibility form” and bring 25 new members with them. “I feel like I am not welcoming 12 of you but 12,000 of you because, given the amount of leadership you all have, you can easily bring 1,000 members each,” the MP told the new members.
Jamir further emphasized the importance of identifying candidates in each Assembly Constituency by next year and working unitedly to secure an MLA for the upcoming election.