Jitan Ram Manjhi, a prominent Indian politician and current Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, has announced that his party, Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM), will contest 10 seats in the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly polls. This move is part of a broader strategy by HAM to expand its political footprint beyond Bihar, where it has significant influence.
Manjhi's political career spans over four decades, with affiliations to various political parties including the Indian National Congress, Janata Dal, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and JD(U). He was Bihar's 23rd Chief Minister from May 2014 to February 2015 before forming his own party, Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM), which he leads as its patron.
HAM's decision to contest in Jharkhand is seen as a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the region. The party has been actively engaging in membership campaigns and preparing for the upcoming elections. According to sources, HAM's national president and Bihar minister Santosh Suman emphasized the importance of expanding the organization in states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jharkhand during a recent national executive meeting in Ranchi.
Manjhi's perseverance and political acumen have been notable throughout his career. Despite facing significant challenges, including a harsh blow in the 2015 Assembly elections where his party secured only one seat, he has continued to be a prominent figure in Bihar's politics. His recent appointment as a Union Minister further underscores his influence within the NDA.
The decision by HAM to contest in Jharkhand is also seen as a potential challenge to the ruling BJP in the state. With Manjhi's reputation as a strong advocate for the Dalit community and his party's commitment to representing the poor and marginalized, HAM is likely to attract significant attention and support in the region.
As the Jharkhand Assembly polls approach, political analysts are closely watching the developments. The entry of HAM into the electoral fray could significantly alter the dynamics of the election, potentially leading to a more competitive and diverse political landscape in the state.
In conclusion, Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM) is set to make a significant impact in the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly polls by contesting 10 seats. This move reflects the party's strategic expansion plans and Manjhi's enduring influence in Indian politics.
