Has Political Deceit Strained JMM's Relationship with INDIA Bloc Allies?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- JMM accuses allies of creating confusion
- Political tensions arise before Bihar elections
- Internal conflicts threaten coalition integrity
- JMM expresses disappointment and frustration
- Congress aims to maintain alliance strength
Ranchi, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has recently directed a fierce critique towards its allies within the INDIA bloc, alleging that they have left the party feeling confused regarding seat-sharing negotiations for the imminent Bihar Assembly elections, ultimately compelling it to withdraw from the electoral race.
As the Bihar elections approach, internal conflicts have emerged within the Mahagathbandhan, with the JMM announcing its decision to depart from the alliance just a day following its declaration to contest six seats independently.
This announcement was made by Jharkhand Minister and senior JMM figure Sudivya Kumar in Giridih, who described the situation as one of political trickery on the part of the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Kumar accused the senior partners of undermining the JMM's standing and violating the very tenets of coalition politics.
In comments to IANS, JMM spokesperson Manoj Kumar Pandey stated, "A state of confusion has been created that has left us perplexed. We never wished to be sidelined from the alliance and have made every effort, but regrettably, we could not succeed. It is disheartening that political deceit has been exercised against us, which may have detrimental repercussions for the INDIA bloc."
"Will the alliance function merely like this? We have consistently supported our allies. We have always offered them more. We even facilitated the appointment of their party leaders as ministers. They owe their presence in the Assembly to us. I state this openly. Despite this, if we are treated in such a manner, it is indeed wrong," he continued.
In response to the situation, Congress leader Rakesh Sinha acknowledged that the JMM rightfully deserves seats for the upcoming elections, but maintained that Congress should not be held accountable.
Speaking with IANS, Sinha remarked, "I believe the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is a natural ally, and it should logically receive seats in Bihar. However, the specifics of what led to this situation can only be clarified by the leadership from the Rashtriya Janata Dal or the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. Discussions took place, and two representatives from this side participated in the talks. What transpired in Bihar is beyond my knowledge, but JMM should have been allocated the seats."
Nevertheless, Sinha emphasized that Congress should not bear the blame for the fallout.
"The Congress has consistently made sacrifices for the alliance's benefit. Our goal is to fortify the alliance because this is a struggle to safeguard democracy and the Constitution. The Congress Party has unwaveringly demonstrated its commitment and willingness to sacrifice within the coalition," he stated.