Itanagar: Addressing speculations about his pursuit of a party ticket allegedly linked to his familial ties with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Itanagar mayor, Tamme Phassang, on Wednesday clarified that his intention to contest the upcoming assembly elections is solely based on seniority within the party (BJP).
Addressing reporter at his office here, Phassang categorically dismissed rumors, stating his “personal connections with MP and Union Minister Rijiju should not be misconstrued as the motivation for seeking a party ticket, as BJP, distinct from the Congress, rejects familial favoritism.”
Highlighting his extensive association with the BJP since 2003, Phassang recounted his candidacy for the Lok Sabha in 2004, alongside Rijiju, under the then Chief Minister Gegong Apang and Deputy CM Kameng Dolo.
Despite not securing a ticket at that time, he was appointed Chairman of the election campaign by State President Taba Hare.
Emphasizing his commitment to the party, Phassang criticized politics based on familial connections, caste, creed, and religion, advocating for merit and seniority.
“In 2014, when no one sought a ticket, I took the initiative and contested the elections. Although Congress secured the mandate and Nabam Tuki became CM, I played a pivotal role in forming the Jan Andolan committee to support the BJP government,” Phassang said.
Phassang had contested the 2014 elections for the Itanagar seat from a BJP ticket and lost the same against incumbent MLA Techi Kaso who then represented the Indian National Congress by a margin of 4841 votes.
Reflecting on his experiences during the Congress rule, the mayor recounted facing harassment and imprisonment. He reiterated his dedication to the BJP cause and his instrumental role in the party’s success in the 2016 elections.
Addressing concerns about bureaucratic tenure, Phassang criticized the extended postings of officers in the capital for decades, calling for adherence to posting tenure rules.
As the mayor of Itanagar Municipal Corporation, Phassang expressed his aspiration to contest the upcoming assembly elections based on his seniority and his commitment to the city’s comprehensive development.
He highlighted challenges such as traffic, parking, and vending zones in Itanagar, urging scrutiny of the current MLA’s performance over the past 15 years.
Phassang also disclosed his efforts to streamline processes for schemes like PMAY, ensuring benefits reach deserving citizens despite challenges in obtaining necessary documents.
Also read: Mayor Tamme Phassang announces candidacy for Itanagar MLA seat
