Jitan Ram Manjhi Threatens to Resign from Modi Cabinet Over Alleged Neglect by NDA
Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi on Tuesday, January 21, threatened to resign from the Modi Cabinet, accusing the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of ignoring his party, Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM). The veteran political leader, who has served as Bihar’s Chief Minister, expressed frustration over his party’s exclusion in the seat-sharing arrangements in both the recent Jharkhand Assembly elections and the upcoming Delhi polls. His comments, made during a public meeting in Munger district, have sent ripples through the political landscape, especially ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later this year.
Jitan Ram Manjhi Criticizes NDA’s Seat-Sharing Decisions
During the meeting, Manjhi made it clear that his party had been sidelined by the BJP-led coalition. “We got nothing in Jharkhand and Delhi. It may be said that I did not make any demand. But is it justice? I was overlooked because I had no standing in these states. So we must prove our worth in Bihar,” Manjhi stated, hinting at his party’s growing discontent with the NDA’s treatment.
The remarks come after the BJP’s seat-sharing negotiations in Jharkhand and Delhi, where the HAM was reportedly excluded from the coalition’s plans. This perceived marginalization has led to Manjhi’s public disillusionment, especially as the party prepares for the crucial Bihar Assembly elections.
A Resignation Threat: A Call for Attention
Manjhi, 80, invoked a verse from the Ramayana during his speech, stating that “fear begets respect.” With a sense of urgency, he added, “It seems I will have to resign from the cabinet.” The union minister’s dramatic statement underscores his frustration with the current state of affairs in the NDA, signaling that he may not hesitate to take drastic steps if his party’s concerns are not addressed.
While Manjhi’s comments were not framed as an outright revolt against the ruling coalition, they were clearly aimed at making the NDA leadership aware of the HAM’s grievances. “Some may say I am fighting with the NDA. But the leadership of Narendra Modi has been such that there is no question of a revolt. I am making a plea, not indulging in a confrontation,” he clarified.
The Political Context: Hindustani Awam Morcha’s Role in Bihar
Jitan Ram Manjhi’s party, Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), plays a relatively small yet significant role in Bihar’s political arena. As the sole Member of Parliament (MP) from HAM, Manjhi has tried to maintain a strong political presence in the state. The party currently holds four seats in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, and Manjhi has been vocal about securing a larger share of the seat allocation in the upcoming elections.
In his address, Manjhi reiterated that his party is seeking “40 seats” in the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls. He asserted that even if HAM secures only 20 seats, the party would still be able to fulfill its demands within the NDA framework. Manjhi’s statement highlights his ongoing efforts to strike a better deal for his party as the state gears up for elections later this year.
The Deteriorating Relationship with the NDA
This is not the first time Jitan Ram Manjhi has expressed dissatisfaction with his party’s treatment within the NDA. On January 19, he accused the BJP-led coalition of “cheating” his party in both Jharkhand and Delhi, amplifying his discontent. The comments reflect a growing rift between HAM and the NDA, which could have significant ramifications for the political landscape in Bihar.
Manjhi’s political journey has been marked by several shifts in alliances. In 2018, he briefly left the NDA to join the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan before returning to the NDA fold. His ongoing displeasure with the alliance could signal further changes, especially as the Bihar Assembly elections approach. The upcoming polls are expected to be a significant test for the NDA, with key players like Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and other regional leaders aiming to sway the electorate.
The Challenge of Securing Promises for Depressed Classes
Apart from the issue of seat-sharing, Manjhi also raised concerns over the promises made by the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government. While he acknowledged the government’s accomplishments, he pointed out that the pledges made to marginalized communities, especially the backward and depressed classes, had not been fully realized. His criticism aimed at the Bihar government underscores the gap between political promises and actual governance.
Manjhi’s frustration stems from his brief tenure as Bihar’s Chief Minister, during which he had made various commitments to uplift the backward classes. Despite his tenure being cut short, Manjhi continues to feel that these promises remain unfulfilled, which could affect his political standing ahead of the elections.
What’s Next for Jitan Ram Manjhi and Hindustani Awam Morcha?
As the Bihar Assembly elections near, the relationship between Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha and the NDA will be a key factor to watch. Manjhi’s threat to resign from the Modi Cabinet is a clear signal to the BJP that his party expects a more substantial role in the coalition’s plans. Whether this plea will lead to a renegotiation of seat-sharing arrangements in Bihar or even cause a shift in alliances remains to be seen.
If his demands are not met, Manjhi’s next political move could significantly impact the NDA’s prospects in Bihar. As a seasoned political strategist, his next steps will likely be calculated, and the NDA will have to decide how to address his concerns to maintain the coalition’s unity.