Jehanabad/Patna, Feb 2 (PTI) – Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has made a strong pitch for his party, Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), to contest "more than 20 seats" in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. The former chief minister made the assertion on Sunday while addressing journalists in Jehanabad, where he attended a function of his party, which currently holds four seats in the 243-member assembly.
"We are strengthening our party structure, which will benefit both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar," said the 80-year-old HAM leader, who is also the party's lone MP.
When asked about his recent remarks advocating for 20 MLAs to fulfill the party’s promises, Manjhi clarified, “Yes, and for that, we need more than 20 seats to contest.” Using his signature earthy style, he added, “We are in a family. If our share is four rotis but we get only one, we will not just stand in a corner.”
Manjhi Hosts NDA Leaders, Praises Modi Government
Later in the day, Manjhi hosted a feast at his residence in Patna, attended by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, a senior BJP leader. Speaking to reporters, he underscored the importance of such gatherings in maintaining unity within the NDA.“These events help in fostering coordination within the alliance, which you journalists often try to disrupt with mischievous rumors,” he quipped.
The veteran leader also lauded the Modi government for its financial allocations to Bihar, claiming that the state has received greater benefits under the current administration than it would have if granted special category status.
"Yesterday's budget was as generous towards Bihar as the previous one. This will strengthen the NDA’s prospects in the assembly polls, which is why the opposition is now complaining that the state is getting too much attention," he remarked, indirectly referring to Congress leader Jairam Ramesh’s recent comments.
With Bihar gearing up for elections, Manjhi’s demand for a greater share of seats and his strong backing of the NDA indicate his party’s strategic positioning ahead of the crucial polls.
