Chetan Anand criticized Chirag Paswan for not campaigning for Deepa Manjhi in the 2024 by-poll.

Patna November 27, 2024: Chetan Anand, the rebellious MLA of RJD, criticized Chirag Paswan for not campaigning for Deepa Manjhi, the NDA candidate in the Imamganj by-poll on Wednesday.

Deepa Manjhi is the daughter-in-law of Jitan Ram Manjhi, a senior NDA leader and Union minister in the Narendra Modi government. He has raised questions about Paswan’s commitment to the alliance.

The remarks by Sheohar MLA Chetan Anand highlight ongoing tensions within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar, particularly regarding Chirag Paswan’s political stance and his role in the recent by-polls.

Chetan Anand believed Chirag’s stance had impacted the voting patterns in Imamganj:

The significant number of votes received by Jitendra Paswan, a candidate from the Jan Suraj party, has fueled speculation about a shift in Chirag Paswan’s support base.

Chetan Anand highlighted the absence of Chirag Paswan in Imamganj, where the NDA fielded Deepa Manjhi against Jitendra Paswan. Despite the NDA’s efforts, Jitendra Paswan managed to secure over 37,000 votes, which Anand believes could have been reduced with Paswan’s active participation.

Chetan Anand’s demand for clarity:

Chetan Anand repeatedly urged Chirag Paswan to clarify his position within the NDA, emphasizing that a “pick and choose” approach to alliance commitments undermines trust and credibility.

“Chirag Paswan should clarify whether his party remains in the NDA or not. He was selectively campaigning during past elections. His absence in critical areas like Imamganj despite active participation elsewhere is unjustified. He did not campaign for the NDA candidate Lovely Anand in Sheohar during the Lok Sabha election 2024,” Anand said.

Lovely Anand is the mother of Chetan Anand.

Historical Contributions:

Referencing his father’s role in supporting the NDA during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure and his support for the Nitish Kumar-led NDA during the floor test in February 2024, Chetan Anand drew a contrast between his family’s loyalty and Chirag Paswan’s perceived indecisiveness.

Underlying Community and Leadership Sentiments:

Chetan Anand underscored the importance of representing a “living community” rather than engaging in opportunistic politics, suggesting that Chirag Paswan’s actions may be driven by individual interests rather than collective goals.

The controversy signals deeper fissures within the NDA in Bihar, especially concerning coalition dynamics and the strategic role of leaders like Chirag Paswan. Anand’s sharp remarks reflect frustration over perceived disunity at a time when the alliance faces challenges in consolidating its voter base.

Also Read: Grand success for Deepa Kumari Manjhi as she won the Imamganj seat with a margin of 5945 votes.

EOM.