Patna- In a significant announcement, the former Chief Minister of Bihar and founder of Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), Jitan Ram Manjhi, declared his retirement from active participation in electoral politics. Citing his advanced age as the primary reason, Manjhi revealed that he no longer possesses the vigor required to contest elections.
This announcement comes amidst widespread speculation that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) might offer him a “post-retirement” position, underscoring his political significance.
Interestingly, this decision follows a recent meeting in Delhi, where Manjhi and his son, Santosh Kumar Suman, who leads the party, held discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding seat allocation. It’s worth noting that HAM(S) had joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in June of this year, departing from the Grand Alliance, which was in power in the state. Notably, Manjhi had previously mentioned in July 2021 that he would not seek re-election due to his advancing age.
Manjhi articulated his decision by stating, “I am not in a position to contest elections anymore. I am already 79 now.” He further asserted that individuals reaching the age of 75 should refrain from engaging in electoral politics, a guideline recently endorsed by the BJP.
Emphasizing his commitment to principles, Manjhi recalled that he had forsaken several professional pursuits to enter politics. He remarked, “I have consistently adhered to principles in life and have set a precedent that one should step away from electoral politics after turning 75, and I intend to adhere to that.”
Curiously, Manjhi emerged from the meeting displaying an air of composure, leaving the decision regarding his party’s future in the hands of the BJP. This suggested a possible agreement between the two parties, according to political analysts.
Manjhi expressed contentment with regards to seat-sharing within the NDA, stating, “There is no dispute over seat-sharing in the NDA. I will accept whatever seat is spared for us.” He conveyed to the Home Minister that the BJP is well-acquainted with their political influence, and they are prepared to accept the seats allocated to them.
Over his illustrious political career spanning more than four decades, Jitan Ram Manjhi has been associated with prominent political parties such as the Congress, RJD, JD(U), and has also served as an ally of the BJP. His political trajectory took an unexpected turn when then Chief Minister Nitish Kumar passed the baton to Manjhi following JD(U)’s dismal performance in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when the party could secure just two out of Bihar’s 40 seats.
This development marks the conclusion of an era in Bihar’s political landscape as Jitan Ram Manjhi steps away from electoral politics, leaving behind a legacy of significant political contributions
