How Will the Jitan Ram Manjhi-led HAM Impact Bihar's Polls?
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Synopsis
Tensions within the NDA escalate as HAM announces candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, including contested seats from the Lok Janshakti Party. Will this affect the NDA's unity as they approach the 2025 elections?
Key Takeaways
- HAM has announced candidates for multiple constituencies.
- Internal disputes within NDA are escalating.
- Jitan Ram Manjhi emphasizes traditional significance of Makhdumpur.
- Coalition politics is becoming increasingly complex.
- Leadership commitment to NDA remains despite tensions.
Patna, Oct 14 (NationPress) The seat-sharing disputes within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar are escalating as the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) has put forth its candidates for multiple constituencies, including two designated for the Lok Janshakti Party Ram Vilas (LJPRV).
On Tuesday, HAM's National General Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pandey announced the party's contenders: Deepa Kumari for Imamganj, Anil Kumar for Tikari, Jyoti Devi for Barachatti, Romit Kumar for Atri, Prafull Kumar Manjhi for Sikandra, and Lalan Ram for Kutumba.
The tension arose when Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union MSME Minister and HAM leader, publicly criticized the NDA's seat distribution, asserting that his party intends to contest the Bodh Gaya and Makhdumpur seats, which are currently allocated to Chirag Paswan’s LJPRV.
Of particular importance for Manjhi is the Makhdumpur seat, which has traditionally been associated with him.
The reassignment of both the Makhdumpur and Bodh Gaya seats to the LJPRV has reportedly led to discontent within HAM.
“I may not know the name of the party, but we will definitely field our candidates from the Bodh Gaya and Makhdumpur seats in the Bihar Assembly election 2025,” Manjhi stated to the media in Patna.
The NDA’s seat-sharing framework designates 101 seats each to the BJP and JDU, while the remaining 41 seats are divided among smaller allies — 29 to LJPRV, 6 to HAM, and 6 to Upendra Kushwaha’s Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM).
The discord became even more evident when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiled its initial list of 71 candidates on Tuesday.
In a surprising turn, instead of the previously assumed allocation of the Tarapur seat to the JDU, the BJP nominated Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary for that constituency, highlighting ongoing coordination issues among NDA partners.
Despite the prevailing tensions, HAM leaders assert their commitment to the NDA.
“Bihar is ready — we are prepared to support the NDA government once more,” declared Rajesh Kumar Pandey, reaffirming the party's loyalty amidst ongoing disagreements.
Point of View
The unfolding political scenario in Bihar presents a significant challenge for the NDA. The internal disputes within the alliance, particularly between HAM and LJPRV, underscore the complexities of coalition politics. As we look forward to the 2025 elections, the ability of these parties to resolve their differences will be crucial in determining their electoral success and governance stability. NationPress remains committed to covering these developments impartially.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key highlights of the HAM candidate announcement?
HAM has announced candidates for several constituencies, including contested seats from the Lok Janshakti Party. Prominent candidates include Deepa Kumari, Anil Kumar, and Jyoti Devi.
Why is the Makhdumpur seat significant for Jitan Ram Manjhi?
The Makhdumpur seat is significant for Manjhi as it has been considered his traditional constituency, making its allocation contentious.
How are the NDA parties allocating seats for the upcoming elections?
The NDA's current seat-sharing arrangement allocates 101 seats each to the BJP and JDU, with smaller allies receiving the remaining seats.
What has been the reaction of HAM leaders to the seat allocation?
Despite the tensions, HAM leaders have reiterated their commitment to the NDA and expressed readiness to support the government.
What impact could these tensions have on the 2025 elections?
The ongoing disputes within the NDA could lead to a fractured alliance, potentially impacting their electoral success in the upcoming elections.
