The upcoming Bihar assembly elections have initiated strategic moves by various political parties. A recent meeting of the India Bloc (Mahagathbandhan) saw the absence of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), leading to various speculations.
The JMM’s exclusion has provoked a strong reaction. JMM Central General Secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya stated they would not be forced into any meeting. He also confirmed the party’s firm decision to contest the Bihar elections.
Bhattacharya urged the RJD and Congress to recognize the JMM’s past support, recalling their backing when the RJD had only one MLA. He suggested that the JMM had adhered to coalition principles in Jharkhand and expected the same from the RJD in Bihar.
The RJD, through Kailash Yadav, clarified that the meeting was for parties aligned ideologically and active in Bihar. They stated that the top leadership would consider the JMM’s position at an appropriate time. The RJD downplayed the JMM’s approach, acknowledging their objective to contest more seats for national recognition. The RJD questioned the JMM’s base in Bihar.
The RJD leader advised the JMM to remain patient, hinting at the possibility of contesting all seats in Bihar. He emphasized the strong positions of both parties in Bihar and Jharkhand. He also mentioned seat-sharing within the Mahagathbandhan, advocating for patience.
The BJP, via CP Singh, offered a comment referencing the JMM’s demands. JMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey announced the party’s plan to contest 16 seats, including Chakai, Katoria, Thakurganj, Kochadhaman, Raniganj, Banmankhi, Rupauli, Dhamdaha, Purnea, Jhajha, Chhatapur, Sonbarsa, Ramnagar, Jamalpur, Tarapur, and Manihari.