GUWAHATI, Dec 27 - Alaka Pandey, the daughter of legendary Goalpariya folk singer Late Pratima Barua Pandey, today joined the ruling BJP at the party�s State head office at Hengrabari.
State BJP president Ranjeet Kumar Dass and general secretary (organisation) Phanindranath Sarma welcomed Pandey into the party fold.
�I have seen that this party (BJP) has given proper respect to artistes and litterateurs. I want to serve the people. I want to do something for Gauripur, for Dhubri, for Assam and for India. And for that, there is no alternative except joining this party. I have realised this even more as an artiste,� she told mediapersons.
Pandey added, �The BJP had given candidature to Dr Bhupen Hazarika. I had respect for the BJP since many years but maybe the time had not arrived till now (to join the party)... BJP is the party which believes in equal opportunities for all, irrespective of caste, creed and religion.�
Today was also the 18th death anniversary of Pratima Barua Pandey. �Therefore, I selected this date to join,� she said.
Asked if she has any plans to enter electoral politics and seek candidature for next year�s Assembly polls, Pandey, said, �I will discharge whatever responsibility is assigned to me by the party.�
Pandey was earlier associated with the Congress.
