JMM Eyes 7 Seats in Jharkhand, Seeks Congress Nod for Lok Sabha Pact

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), a key member of the state’s ruling alliance, has thrown down the gauntlet, demanding to contest seven seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This ambitious claim, encompassing all five Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservations and two general seats, awaits Congress’s approval for the alliance to move forward.

JMM working president Hemant Soren confirmed the party’s aspiration of contesting seven seats while acknowledging discussions with Congress. However, Congress state president Rajesh Thakur, while recognizing JMM’s legitimate claim, emphasized the need for a balanced allocation within the alliance.

JMM’s sights are set on Singhbhum, Khunti, Dumka, Lohardaga, and Rajmahal, the ST-reserved seats, along with Jamshedpur and Giridih. While acknowledging potential challenges, both Thakur and JMM general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey expressed optimism about reaching an agreement within ten days, reiterating the “India Alliance” as the true contender in the upcoming elections.

According to media reports, JMM is eyeing all the five seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes in the state. Apart from this, he is also claiming Jamshedpur and Giridih. Singhbhum, Khunti, Dumka, Lohardaga and Rajmahal are the reserved seats for ST in the state.

Jharkhand Congress State President Rajesh Thakur said that there will be no problem in seat sharing and the deal will be done within 10 days. On the other hand, JMM general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey said that the parties included in the India alliance will leave no stone unturned to ensure victory. He said that JMM and Congress are not contesting the elections but the India Alliance is contesting the elections.