In what is being described as the most formidable political contest of his career, former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi finds himself battling not just opposition parties but rebellion within his own Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) camp in Gaya.
The Family Feud That Shook Gaya
The political landscape in Gaya has been electrified by an unexpected challenger - Manjhi's own grandson, Anupam. Breaking family ranks, Anupam has thrown his hat into the ring as a candidate for the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), directly challenging his grandfather's stronghold and creating an unprecedented family versus political legacy showdown.
Internal Dissent Reaches Boiling Point
The rebellion extends beyond family lines, with significant discontent brewing within HAM(S) ranks. Party workers have openly expressed frustration over Manjhi's decision to contest from Gaya instead of his traditional Gaya SC seat. "This has created massive confusion and resentment among our core supporters," revealed a senior party member who wished to remain anonymous.
Son Adds Fuel to Political Fire
Making matters more complex, Manjhi's son, Santosh Suman, has been fielded from the Gaya SC constituency. This strategic move has further divided party loyalties and resources, leaving many wondering if the Manjhi political machinery can sustain a two-front war within the same political territory.
NDA Alliance Under Strain
The internal turmoil comes at a critical juncture for the National Democratic Alliance in Bihar. With Manjhi's party being a crucial constituent of the NDA, the rebellion in Gaya could potentially upset the alliance's carefully crafted social equations and vote-sharing arrangements in the region.
Grassroots Workers Voice Concerns
On the ground, the sentiment among party cadres reflects the deepening crisis. "There's clear discontent among our dedicated workers," admitted a local HAM(S) functionary. "Many feel sidelined and uncertain about the party's direction, especially with the family contest creating conflicting loyalties."
High-Stakes Political Gambit
Political analysts are calling this Manjhi's most challenging electoral battle since he burst onto the Bihar political scene. The combination of family rebellion, internal party dissent, and the high-stakes nature of Lok Sabha elections has created a perfect storm that threatens to dismantle Manjhi's carefully built political empire in his backyard.
As voting day approaches, all eyes remain fixed on Gaya, where political legacy, family loyalties, and survival instincts are colliding in what promises to be one of Bihar's most dramatic electoral battles this season.
