Could NDA Achieve a Historic Seat Victory in Bihar? Kiren Rijiju Weighs In
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NDA is likely to secure a record number of seats in Bihar.
- Kiren Rijiju expresses confidence in the NDA's unity.
- Criticism of the Mahagathbandhan highlights internal divisions.
- Rajya Sabha by-elections proceed peacefully in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Upcoming by-elections in J&K could impact regional dynamics.
Jammu, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, stated on Friday that there is a significant likelihood of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) achieving a record number of seats in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
In an interview with IANS, Rijiju remarked, "It is evident that the citizens of Bihar stand with the NDA. The BJP, JD(U), and other allies are collaborating in total harmony. This is a lopsided competition. We anticipate the NDA could secure a record number of seats this election cycle."
He also expressed criticism towards the Opposition coalition, known as Mahagathbandhan, labeling its members as "opportunists."
"The Mahagathbandhan lacks a genuine alliance. They are simply opportunists vying for power and dividing seats among themselves. Should the electorate provide their mandate, how do they intend to distribute those seats?" Rijiju told IANS.
Additionally, the Union Minister commented on the recent Rajya Sabha by-elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which took place on Friday.
"The Rajya Sabha by-election in J&K has concluded. We anticipate favorable results. Regardless of the outcome, we will accept it, as that is the essence of democracy. However, discerning who supports whom within the House is challenging," he added.
The voting for the Rajya Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir was conducted peacefully, with 86 MLAs participating, including detained Doda MLA Mehraj Malik who voted via postal ballot, while Peoples Conference (PC) MLA Sajad Lone abstained from voting.
The electoral process took place at the Legislative Assembly complex in Srinagar.
Out of the 90-member strong J&K Assembly, two seats, Nagrota and Budgam, are set for by-elections on November 11 following their vacancy.
The results for all four Rajya Sabha seats will be announced post 4 p.m.
The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) led by Khurshid Ahmad has also expressed support for the NC alliance.
With 41 MLAs and support from six Congress members, five independents, one CPI(M) MLA, three from PDP, and one from AIP, the NC candidates appear to have an advantage over their BJP counterparts.
The BJP can secure the fourth seat only if there is some cross-voting from those who have pledged support for the NC candidates.
The NC has nominated Muhammed Ramzan Chowdhary, Sajad Kichloo, Shami Oberoi, and Imran Nabi Dar.
The BJP has put forward three candidates, including its J&K President Sat Sharma.
If the NC fails to exceed 28 votes for the fourth Rajya Sabha seat, then the BJP with 28 votes could have a chance for that seat.