The BJP's defeat in Jharkhand can be attributed to one key misstep: not declaring a clear tribal CM candidate. Despite having prominent tribal leaders, including Champai Soren, Arjun Munda, and Babulal Marandi, the BJP failed to capitalize on this. The JMM-led alliance, led by Hemant Soren, was able to connect with tribal sentiment by promising a tribal CM, which the BJP did not do. Despite anti-incumbency against the ruling government and allegations related to tribal land issues, the BJP's strategy fell short. The JMM's ability to promise a tribal leader as CM played a decisive role in securing their third consecutive government in Jharkhand.