The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has renewed its criticism of the INDIA bloc in Bihar, alleging deliberate exclusion despite repeated efforts to join the alliance ahead of the state elections.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi revealed that his party had written three letters to alliance leaders, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), seeking allocation of six seats. However, the requests were reportedly ignored, leaving AIMIM frustrated over what it describes as “selective exclusion.”
AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman confirmed that approaches were made to both Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav, but without a positive response. He said the move risks splitting secular votes, particularly in the Seemanchal region, where AIMIM claims a strong presence.
Mr. Owaisi clarified that AIMIM was not demanding ministerial berths in case of an INDIA bloc victory. Instead, the party only sought the creation of a Seemanchal Development Board, highlighting the backwardness of the region and the need for focused development initiatives.
The ongoing snub has fueled accusations from rivals that AIMIM functions as the “BJP’s B team,” a label Mr. Owaisi has strongly rejected. With no alliance in sight, AIMIM is now preparing to contest independently in Bihar, a move that could have significant implications for the electoral battle.
