Patna: A significant political twist has occurred in Bihar regarding the Lok Sabha elections. Asaduddin Owaisi’s party, All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), known for its strong presence in Seemanchal, has withdrawn its nominations from nearly ten constituencies in the state. Particularly in Purnia and Katihar, the party has decided not to field its candidates.
According to AIMIM’s state president Akhtarul Iman, the party will now contest only from the Kishanganj and Araria constituencies. Iman stated that AIMIM will extend its support to candidates who share similar ideologies and are ready to combat communal forces on the remaining seats. From the Kishanganj constituency, AIMIM’s state president Akhtarul Iman himself will contest the elections.
Earlier, the party had withdrawn its nomination from another constituency. In Purnia, where a direct contest was anticipated between RJD (Bima Bharati) and JD(U) (Santosh Kushwaha), Pappu Yadav’s entry has turned it into a triangular contest. Similarly, in Katihar, the contest is between Congress (Tariq Anwar) and JD(U) (Dulal Chand Goswami). The second phase of voting for these constituencies is scheduled for April 26.
Seemanchal Holds Key
AIMIM has garnered significant support in Seemanchal, especially in Kishanganj, Araria, and Purnia districts. In the previous 2020 assembly elections, the party tasted victory in all three districts, securing five seats. Notably, Kishanganj constituency holds crucial importance for AIMIM, despite technically falling under Purnia district. AIMIM’s state president Akhtarul Iman is contesting from Kishanganj, where he faced defeat in the previous elections.
Relief for Mahagathbandhan
AIMIM’s announcement has come as a relief for the Mahagathbandhan, reducing the possibility of a split in Muslim votes. Following AIMIM’s decision, JD(U) launched a sharp attack, alleging that AIMIM has withdrawn nominations after receiving monetary benefits. JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar accused AIMIM of either aligning with the Mahagathbandhan or indulging in a game of money, indicating the party’s inclination towards dynastic and corrupt politics.
