'BJP Hurrying to Finish JD(U)': Manoj Jha Slams Saffron Party
RJD MP Manoj Jha slams BJP after independent MLCs join the party, alleging a plot to sideline ally JD(U) and seeking their disqualification.
The political atmosphere in Bihar has reached a boiling point after two Independent Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) almost immediately after their victory. This move has triggered a sharp reaction from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha, who claims the BJP is actively working to dismantle its own NDA ally, the Janata Dal (United).
The Controversy Over Independent MLCs
The spark for this political firestorm was the decision of Rahul Kumar and Banshidhar Brajwasi to join the BJP. Both candidates contested and won their seats as Independents in the Bihar Legislative Council elections. However, just a day after the results were announced, they formally aligned themselves with the BJP.
Manoj Jha reacted strongly to this development, suggesting that the BJP is in a rush to "finish off" the JD(U). According to Jha, the election results reflected a clear message from voters across various castes and communities, highlighting that the BJP managed to secure only two seats despite its extensive efforts.
RJD to Seek Disqualification
The RJD is not merely criticizing the move verbally; they are preparing a legal challenge. Manoj Jha announced that the party will approach the Election Commission and the Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council to demand the disqualification of Rahul Kumar and Banshidhar Brajwasi.
Jha argued that according to existing rules, any member elected as an Independent who subsequently joins a political party should be disqualified from their position.
Breaking Down the Election Results
The recent elections for the eight Bihar Legislative Council seats—comprising four teachers' and four graduates' constituencies—showed a fragmented mandate:
- RJD: Won two seats. Notable victories include Dr. Sanjeev Kumar in the Patna Teachers' constituency, where he defeated the five-term BJP MLC Nawal Kishore Yadav, and Anil Jha in the Darbhanga Graduates' constituency.
- BJP: Won two seats.
- Others: The remaining four seats were split between the Janata Dal (United), the Jan Suraaj Party, and Independent candidates.
Timing and the 'Chalo Delhi' March
Beyond the local politics of Bihar, Manoj Jha questioned the strategic timing of the MLCs joining the BJP. He pointed out that the move happened just a day before the INDIA bloc's massive demonstration in New Delhi.
The opposition is organizing the 'Chalo Delhi Ramlila March' at Ramlila Maidan. This protest is aimed at demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, following allegations of irregularities in the electoral rolls. The march involves INDIA bloc MPs assembling at the Constitution Club before proceeding toward Ramlila Maidan.