The BJP high command's diktat to Jharkhand CM Arjun Munda was clear. He was to ensure the party's deputy leader in Rajya Sabha SS Ahluwalia's election during the polling on May 3 for the Upper House in the state. But there was a problem. Munda had committed himself to coalition partner Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), which had warned of dire consequences if its nominee lost. The electoral arithmetic might have seen a second nominee win, but it would be risky. So, Munda remained cool to Ahluwalia.