Is There a Deepening Rift within JD-U Leadership Following ‘Mistress’ Remarks?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Internal conflict within JD-U leadership highlighted.
- Accusations of misconduct and serious allegations exchanged.
- Pressure on party leadership and judiciary to respond.
- Potential impact on Bihar's political landscape.
- Importance of unity within political parties emphasized.
Patna, Aug 16 (NationPress) The rift within the JD-U leadership has intensified following remarks made by Gopalpur MLA Narendra Kumar Neeraj regarding a supposed 'mistress'. Bhagalpur MP Ajay Mandal and JD-U Mahila Morcha state general secretary Kumari Aparna have rejected these allegations as “baseless”.
“We have complete faith in the judiciary and the party, and we will respect the court’s ruling,” stated Ajay Mandal, criticizing the MLA’s comments.
Kumari Aparna clarified during a media interaction in Bhagalpur that Ajay Mandal is her maternal uncle, stating, “Gopal Mandal is aware of this. It is unacceptable to make such indecent remarks.”
She added that she has informed the party's high command about the issue and is prepared to follow the leadership's decision.
The internal conflict in Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal (United) has escalated after MLA Narendra Kumar Neeraj, also known as Gopal Mandal, made controversial comments about Ajay Mandal and Kumari Aparna.
Gopal Mandal accused Kumari Aparna of being Ajay Mandal’s “mistress,” sparking severe backlash within the party.
In reaction, Ajay Mandal filed an FIR against Gopal Mandal at the Ghongha police station and called for strict action against him.
He has also reported the matter to the party's senior leadership, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, demanding justice.
Ajay Mandal claims that Gopal Mandal's comments are an attempt to tarnish his public image.
The situation escalated further when Gopal Mandal claimed that Ajay Mandal was “HIV positive” and should be prohibited from entering Parliament, along with accusations of his involvement in serious crimes.
“He is also implicated in opium cultivation,” he alleged.
The exchange of accusations has put the spotlight on the internal politics of JD-U’s Bhagalpur unit, complicating the position of the party’s leadership, including Chief Minister and JD-U national president Nitish Kumar.
This controversy has revealed significant internal divisions within JD-U, creating pressure on both the judiciary and party leadership to take action.