With Tripura assembly elections round the corner, in a major shock to TMC and CPI (M), Former Tripura TMC president Subal Bhowmik and CPI(M) politician from the state Moboshar Ali joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in the national capital on Friday, news agency ANI reported. Chief Minister Manik Saha was also present on the ocassion.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister welcomed the leaders into the party and stated that they will strengthen it. "In wake of the upcoming poll, the joining of these 2 leaders will strengthen the party. Owing to the BJP leadership both at the Centre and in the State, there is a lot of public support & trust in us. BJP will definitely form the Govt in Tripura once again," he was quoted as saying by ANI.
Bhowmik spoke after gaining primary membership in the party, praising the growth in the Northeast over the last eight years and claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had elevated the area to the world stage.
"After PM Modi came to power at the Centre, Tripura has been recognised and development of the state has taken place. The work of 6 National Highways is underway in a small state like Tripura. Tripura has also got an international airport under the leadership of the Prime Minister. PM Modi took the Northeast to the international platform," he said.
Bhowmik showed confidence that the BJP will retain power in Tripura by saying that the two leaders will cooperate to further the state's development.
"The Northeast has got an emotional connection with the Prime Minister. We are glad that we have joined the development of Tripura today. We will further develop Tripura. I have confidence that the BJP will repeat its government in Tripura with a thumping majority," he said.
The BJP's electoral committee met today in the nation's capital and is expected to decide on the candidates for the Tripura Assembly elections.
This year, Tripura's Assembly elections are set for February 16.
(With Inputs From ANI)