The political currents from Bihar’s elections are significantly impacting Jharkhand, signaling a potential shift in the state’s political landscape. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) finds itself at a critical juncture after experiencing what it perceives as a betrayal in the Bihar elections. Despite initial plans to contest, the party was compelled to withdraw, leading to its separation from the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).
This development raises a crucial question: what path will JMM forge next? Sources suggest the betrayal by Congress and RJD in Bihar warrants a similar severance of ties in Jharkhand. Breaking away from its current allies is seen as a potential avenue for retribution.
Should JMM sever its alliance, two primary options emerge. The first involves leveraging its influence to split the Congress and RJD legislative parties, potentially bringing a significant number of MLAs into the JMM fold. Given Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s seasoned political acumen, engineering such a split is considered a plausible strategy, especially as many MLAs owe their victory to JMM’s support rather than the individual strength of their parent parties in Jharkhand.
Alternatively, JMM might maintain the status quo, using the threat of an alliance breakdown to exert pressure on Congress and RJD. This would allow Hemant Soren to continue governing Jharkhand as he currently does, with Congress and RJD having minimal influence.
A more dramatic possibility is JMM aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP has reportedly been in contact with JMM leaders, actively seeking an opportune moment for an alliance. The final decision rests with Hemant Soren, likely influenced by the Bihar election results and the unfolding political dynamics by November.