Will the JMM's Independent Stand Impact the Bihar Polls?
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Synopsis
As the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections draw near, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has decided to contest six seats independently, creating tension within the Grand Alliance. This decision follows frustrations over seat-sharing discussions. Will this rift affect the Grand Alliance's electoral prospects?
Key Takeaways
- The JMM is contesting six seats independently.
- Frustration over seat-sharing discussions led to this decision.
- Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will lead the campaign.
- The move raises questions about the unity of the Grand Alliance.
- Potential impacts on the electoral prospects of the alliance.
Patna, Oct 18 (NationPress) As the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections approach, tensions have emerged within the Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan) following the announcement by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) to contest independently.
Frustrated by its exclusion in seat-sharing discussions, the JMM has decided to run candidates in six constituencies: Chakai, Dhamdha, Katoria (ST), Manihari (ST), Jamui, and Pirpainti. These areas will participate in the second phase of elections on November 11 and are situated along the Bihar-Jharkhand border.
During a press briefing in Ranchi on Saturday, JMM General Secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya expressed the party's dissatisfaction, stating they sought seven seats within the Grand Alliance but received none.
“We are fully prepared for the Bihar elections and will contest on six seats. However, we remain optimistic that leaders of the Grand Alliance will make their decision shortly,” Bhattacharya remarked.
He emphasized that although the JMM has not officially cut ties with the alliance, it cannot afford to wait indefinitely as the nomination process is already in progress.
Bhattacharya also reminded alliance members of the JMM's generosity in previous seat-sharing arrangements.
“In the 2019 Jharkhand Assembly elections, we offered considerable space to the Congress, RJD, and CPI(ML). The RJD received seven seats in Jharkhand and won just one (Chatra), yet their only MLA was made a minister. Even in the 2024 Assembly elections, the RJD was granted respectable seats,” he pointed out.
Stressing the JMM's capability to independently challenge the BJP, Bhattacharya warned that disunity within the Grand Alliance could undermine its electoral chances.
“We want to avoid confusion within the alliance. However, if our leaders do not campaign in Bihar, the Grand Alliance could face significant losses,” he cautioned.
The JMM has also announced a lineup of 20 star campaigners for Bihar, with Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren set to lead the charge. Most star campaigners come from Soren's cabinet.
Point of View
The emerging rift within the Grand Alliance, particularly with the JMM's decision to contest independently, highlights the challenges of coalition politics. This move could either lead to a split vote, benefiting the BJP, or it could serve as a wake-up call for the alliance to strengthen their collaboration. As the election date approaches, the focus will be on how these dynamics unfold.
NationPress
06/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the JMM contesting independently?
The JMM is contesting independently due to dissatisfaction with its exclusion from seat-sharing discussions within the Grand Alliance.
How many seats is the JMM contesting?
The JMM has announced it will contest in six constituencies for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
What are the constituencies the JMM will contest?
The JMM will contest in Chakai, Dhamdha, Katoria (ST), Manihari (ST), Jamui, and Pirpainti.
Who is leading the JMM campaign in Bihar?
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will lead the JMM campaign in Bihar.
What is the significance of the JMM's decision?
The JMM's decision to contest independently could signal a fracture in the Grand Alliance, affecting their overall electoral strategy.
