The Janata Dal (United) on Thursday asked Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi to refrain from making controversial statements. With his regular remarks, Mr Manjhi has been hitting headlines and grabbing eyeballs in the recent past.
“The party has suggested Manjhi to refrain from making any controversial statements as it not only hurts the organisation and makes leaders uncomfortable but fuels disunity in the party,” said K C Tyagi, party general secretary.
Talking to media persons in Patna, Mr Tyagi said such statements have not been making positive impact among the voters and party supporters. “This is the time to remain united to fight divisive agenda of communal forces. Such statements could be distorted and used for its benefit by the BJP,” he added.
Earlier, party president Sharad Yadav had admonished Mr Manjhi for his statements. Mr Yadav reportedly had brokered peace between Mr Manjhi and his predecessor Nitish Kumar following which the Chief Minister had visited Mr. Kumar’s residence after a long time.
Mr. Yadav, however, on Wednesday said that there was no need to pay undue attention to Mr. Manjhi’s statements. “People should focus on his work instead”, he said, before leaving for Jharkhand for poll campaign.
Some ruling party leaders and legislators have welcomed the ‘suggestion’ to Mr Manjhi. “It was long due…he should have been given this last chance much earlier. It will be better for the party if Manjhi stops making such loose statements”, said party MLA Sunil Pandey.
