Patna: AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has stated that his party is willing to back the newly established government of Nitish Kumar in Bihar, provided the state pledges to achieve what he terms “justice for Seemanchal.” Speaking at a public gathering in Amour, Owaisi criticized the government for its persistent focus on Patna and Rajgir, arguing that the northeastern region, one of Bihar’s most impoverished areas, has been neglected, facing challenges like flooding, erosion, migration, and systemic corruption. “We are ready to support Nitish Kumar’s government, but justice must be delivered to Seemanchal,” Owaisi asserted. “For how long will everything be concentrated around Patna and Rajgir? Seemanchal has endured hardships for decades.
These concerns can no longer be overlooked.” Seemanchal, located in Bihar’s far northeast, is characterized by a significant Muslim population and remains one of the state’s least developed regions. Approximately 80% of its residents live in rural areas, and the Kosi River causes annual floods that severely impact their livelihoods. Despite the NDA’s significant victory in the recent assembly elections, claiming 14 out of 24 seats in the region, Owaisi’s AIMIM has maintained its presence, securing five seats, the same as in 2020, although four of its MLAs switched to the RJD after that election. Owaisi announced that the party would implement stricter oversight of its MLAs to ensure they remain active in their constituencies.
“All five of our MLAs will be required to spend two days a week in their constituency offices,” he explained. “They must send me photos with live WhatsApp location to verify their presence.” He also plans to visit each constituency every six months to address corruption, stating, “We will engage with the common people and raise their concerns. This is our pledge.” Owaisi further warned the new government, saying, “Patna has come to understand that the people of Seemanchal are and will continue to stand with the Patank Chhap. The message to Patna will originate from Seemanchal alone.”