Why Did JDU’s Gopal Mandal File as Independent?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Gopal Mandal of JDU has decided to run as an independent candidate after being denied a party ticket. This move, alongside Snehlata Kushwaha's entry into the Sasaram electoral race, sets the stage for a thrilling Bihar Assembly election. What does this mean for the political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Gopal Mandal files as an independent candidate after party denial.
- Protests led by Mandal highlight his loyalty to Nitish Kumar.
- Emotional moments captured during the nomination process.
- Snehlata Kushwaha enters the electoral scene, focusing on development.
- The Rashtriya Lok Morcha secures six seats under NDA agreement.
Patna, Oct 18 (NationPress) In a significant political turn of events ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, four-time JDU MLA Narendra Kumar Neeraj, also known as Gopal Mandal, from Bhagalpur’s Gopalpur constituency has submitted his nomination as an independent candidate after being denied a party ticket.
The Janata Dal United (JDU) has opted for former MP Bulo Mandal as the official NDA candidate from Gopalpur.
In anticipation of this denial, Gopal Mandal had previously staged a protest in Patna, appealing to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to rethink the decision — but his pleas were ignored.
On Saturday, Mandal showed up with a significant number of supporters to file his nomination papers.
During a gathering, he became visibly emotional, shedding tears.
Through his sobs, he proclaimed, “I will never abandon Nitish Kumar,” while raising slogans of “Nitish Kumar Zindabad.”
His heartfelt display resonated with his supporters, who joined him in his chants.
Gopal Mandal is recognized for his controversial remarks, particularly against JDU MP from Bhagalpur, Ajay Kumar Manda.
Mandal has also accused Ajay Kumar Mandal of serious corruption. In response, Ajay Kumar filed an FIR against him in Bhagalpur, claiming that Gopal Mandal is damaging his political and public reputation.
Meanwhile, in Sasaram, Snehlata Kushwaha, the spouse of Upendra Kushwaha, head of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) — an NDA ally — has officially entered the electoral contest.
She submitted her nomination papers to SDM Ashutosh Ranjan, supported by her husband and a large group of enthusiastic backers.
In a media interaction, Snehlata Kushwaha expressed her commitment to development and public service.
Upendra Kushwaha is optimistic that her candidacy will bring about a new wave of change in the Sasaram region.
The Rashtriya Lok Morcha has secured six assembly seats as part of the NDA's seat-sharing agreement, with Snehlata Kushwaha contesting one of them.
This marks her first foray into Bihar's political arena.
Point of View
The events surrounding Gopal Mandal and Snehlata Kushwaha signify a notable shift in Bihar's political dynamics. Mandal's emotional plea and Kushwaha's fresh entry into politics showcase the evolving landscape as candidates strive to connect with the electorate, reflecting both challenges and opportunities within the region.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Gopal Mandal to run as an independent candidate?
Gopal Mandal decided to run as an independent candidate after being denied a party ticket by JDU, leading him to stage protests and ultimately file nominations independently.
Who is Snehlata Kushwaha?
Snehlata Kushwaha is the wife of Upendra Kushwaha, the chief of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, and she has entered the Bihar Assembly elections to focus on development and public service.
How many seats has the Rashtriya Lok Morcha secured in the NDA's arrangement?
The Rashtriya Lok Morcha has secured six assembly seats under the NDA’s seat-sharing arrangement.
What are Gopal Mandal's allegations against Ajay Kumar Mandal?
Gopal Mandal has leveled serious corruption charges against Ajay Kumar Mandal, which led to an FIR being filed against him.
What was the reaction of Gopal Mandal's supporters during his nomination?
Gopal Mandal's supporters were moved by his emotional display and joined him in chanting slogans of support for Nitish Kumar.
