Gaya: Tensions within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have flared ahead of the Bihar elections after Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi strongly criticised fellow NDA leader Giriraj Singh’s “Namak Haram” remark.
Speaking at an election event in Gaya, Manjhi said, “No one should be called ‘Namak Haram’ in this manner.” He urged political leaders to refrain from divisive language, adding that votes should be cast based on “development and work, not caste.”
Addressing communal concerns, Manjhi said, “RJD leaders are merely scaring Muslims in the name of the BJP. We pray to God to give them wisdom so that they vote for us. Modi works for the development of all — Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians alike.”
On the issue of leadership within the NDA, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) chief reaffirmed his alliance’s support for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. “Everyone in the NDA has said we will contest under Nitish Kumar’s leadership,” he said. “If we have already made him the groom, why are you calling him just the bride?”
Turning his attention to the opposition, Manjhi claimed that the Grand Alliance of the Congress and RJD has “completely disintegrated.” He said, “The leaders of the Grand Alliance are busy fighting among themselves. No one stands before the NDA; we are going to win.”
