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Ranchi, October 21 (IANS) Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), which leads the ruling coalition in Jharkhand, has been completely sidelined in the Bihar assembly elections.
The party, which had sought 16 seats in Bihar as part of the Grand Alliance, was ignored by the RJD and Congress leadership till the last moment, creating a major strain in their relations.
JMM formally announced its exit from the Grand Alliance in Bihar on Diwali, triggering speculation about the future of its partnership with RJD and Congress in Jharkhand.
Senior JMM leader and state minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu accused the RJD and Congress of “political betrayal”, saying, “We gave them a fair share in the Jharkhand assembly elections. After forming the government, we also included an RJD MLA in the cabinet. Despite this, they have insulted us in Bihar. Their manipulation is unbearable.”
Sonu’s comments have sparked discussion in political circles, with some suggesting that the bitterness over Bihar could have a deep impact on the power dynamics of Jharkhand.
JMM spokesperson Manoj Kumar Pandey expressed similar sentiments, saying, “Somewhere, a situation of confusion has arisen which has left us heartbroken. We did not want to be pulled out of the alliance and made every possible effort, but unfortunately, we failed in our efforts. It is sad and unfortunate that political deceit or broken trust was perpetrated against us, which may have an adverse impact on India.”
Congress leader Rakesh Sinha said that JMM deserves to get seats for the upcoming elections, but Congress should not be blamed for this.
Speaking to IANS, Sinha said, “I believe that Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is a natural ally, and naturally, it should get seats in Bihar. However, what circumstances arose and what circumstances evolved, only the leadership can tell, whether it is from RJD or JMM. There were discussions and two representatives from here also went to the talks. What happened there in Bihar, I am not aware, but JMM should have got seats in Bihar.”
Political observers say the episode has deeply hurt the JMM leadership, although Chief Minister Hemant Soren, known for his political pragmatism, is unlikely to take any hasty steps that could destabilize the government.
Analysts suggest JMM could adopt a measured approach – possibly dropping the RJD minister from the cabinet as a sign of dissatisfaction – while avoiding breaking the alliance altogether.
JMM does not have the numbers to run the government alone in Jharkhand. Even if it separates from RJD, it will still need the support of Congress. If Hemant Soren later decides to move forward independently, he may first try to woo Congress and RJD MLAs to his side to gain majority.
“He is an experienced player and will take any step only after assessing the entire political picture,” said a senior political observer.
Experts believe Hemant Soren will keep a close eye on the Bihar election results and the emerging political mood before taking any decisive steps – possibly after November.
–IANS
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