Is Cong Supporting Sharjeel Imam's Candidacy in Bihar Elections?
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Synopsis
Congress leader Udit Raj expresses support for jailed activist Sharjeel Imam's plea for interim bail to contest Bihar Assembly elections. This move raises questions about the intersection of politics and criminal charges in Bihar, highlighting historical precedents in the region's electoral landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to run in Bihar elections.
- Udit Raj supports his candidacy despite criminal charges.
- The AIMIM plans to contest around 100 seats.
- Dissatisfaction among Bihar's Muslim community is rising.
- Polling is set for November 6 and 11.
New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) Congress leader Udit Raj has voiced his support for imprisoned activist Sharjeel Imam, who has requested interim bail to participate in the Bihar Assembly elections. Udit Raj emphasized that running for office while under criminal charges is not a new phenomenon in Bihar politics.
Imam, who is currently held in Delhi’s Tihar Jail related to the conspiracy case of the 2020 Delhi riots, has approached the court for permission to campaign and submit his nomination for the Bahadurganj constituency in Kishanganj district.
While endorsing Imam's move, Udit Raj remarked, "Numerous individuals with criminal backgrounds have contested elections in Bihar. They encounter various charges, including sedition. He is also entitled to run. This is not unprecedented," stated Raj.
Sharjeel Imam, a former student of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), faces several charges, notably sedition and violations of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He has been in detention for over three years. Nevertheless, his legal team has filed for interim bail, citing his constitutional right to engage in elections.
Simultaneously, the AIMIM's decision to run independently after failing to establish a third-front alliance has complicated the electoral scenario in Bihar. Udit Raj commented on AIMIM’s role, stating, "This party appears wherever elections are conducted, delivers religious speeches, and contributes to polarization, benefiting the BJP."
The AIMIM has announced its plan to contest approximately 100 seats in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections, indicating a more assertive electoral strategy.
Addressing the escalating dissatisfaction within Bihar’s Muslim community, Bihar AIMIM president Akhtarul Iman expressed, "RJD acts as the BJP’s B-team in Bihar. We sought an alliance with RJD to represent Bihar’s 18 percent Muslim population, requesting just six seats, but they declined. There is rising frustration in the community, and the Mahagathbandhan could face consequences in the elections."
Voting in Bihar is scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results to be announced on November 14.
Point of View
The support for Sharjeel Imam by Congress leader Udit Raj opens a dialogue about the complexities of electoral participation amidst criminal allegations. This situation reflects the intricate dynamics of Bihar's political landscape, where historical precedents often blur the lines of legality and political ambition.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Sharjeel Imam seeking bail?
Sharjeel Imam is seeking interim bail to contest the Bihar Assembly elections, asserting his constitutional right to participate in the electoral process.
What charges does Sharjeel Imam face?
Sharjeel Imam faces multiple charges, including sedition and violations of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), related to the 2020 Delhi riots.
What is Udit Raj's stance on Imam's candidacy?
Udit Raj supports Sharjeel Imam, stating that contesting elections while facing criminal charges is not uncommon in Bihar politics.
What impact might the AIMIM's independence have on the elections?
The AIMIM's decision to contest independently may further polarize voters and complicate the electoral landscape in Bihar, potentially benefiting BJP.
When are the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled?
The Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results to be announced on November 14.
