1. Itanagar Mayor Tamme Phassang denies seeking a party ticket based on alleged association with Kiren Rijiju.
2. Clarifies that aspirations for Assembly elections are grounded in seniority, not familial ties.
3. Emphasizes in a press conference that personal relations with Rijiju should not be connected to political ambitions.
Itanagar, Jan 31: Itanagar Mayor Tamme Phassang addressed rumors about seeking a party ticket due to his alleged close association with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. He clarified that his aspirations for the upcoming Assembly elections are based on seniority rather than familial ties.
During a press conference in Itanagar, Phassang emphasized that personal relations with Kiren Rijiju should not be linked to his pursuit of an Itanagar Capital MLA ticket. He highlighted the BJP’s stance against familism and stated, “In our party, we don’t believe in familism like Congress.”
Phassang recounted his long association with the BJP since 2003, asserting his dedication to the party’s cause. Despite facing challenges in the past, such as not securing a ticket in 2004, he remained committed to the BJP’s principles and worked diligently for the party’s success.
“In 2014, no one came up to ask for a ticket, so I took the risk and contested elections. Congress got the mandate, and Nabam Tuki became CM. The Jan Andolan committee was formed under my initiative to make a BJP government with the support of all,” Phassang explained.
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He highlighted his struggles during the Congress rule, facing harassment and even imprisonment. Despite these challenges, Phassang remained steadfast in his association with the BJP.
Expressing his commitment to the party’s values, Phassang criticized the politics of familism, caste, creed, and religion. He emphasized his belief in contribution and seniority as guiding principles.
Phassang, the Mayor of Itanagar, raised concerns about bureaucrats being posted in the same place for an extended period, contrary to the established tenure rules. He urged for a report card of the present MLA elected over the past 15 years and presented his rationale for seeking a BJP ticket.
As the Mayor, Phassang emphasized the challenges faced by Itanagar, a smart city grappling with issues such as traffic, parking, and vending zones.
He cited his efforts to relax documentation requirements and provide benefits to poor citizens through the Municipal Corporation, emphasizing the need for all-round development in the capital.
