Independent MLAs in Jharkhand always with and in government

Ranchi, Aug (UNI) The independent legislators, the key players in politics of Jharkhand, have set up a precedence of always being in power.

The group of MLAs better known as "G-5" in erstwhile Arjun Munda-led government and "Hum Saat" during UPA backed Madhu Koda regime have often shown their loyalty to last few "treasury Benches" formed after first assembly election in the state.

The list of those MLAs includes Bandhu Tirkey from Mandar assembly seat, Harinarayan Rai from Jarmundi and Anos Ekka from Kolibera, who were elected for one term but served three governments.

The list also includes former Chief Minister Madhu Koda government and independent MLA from Jagannathpur assembly seat.

After the first assembly polls, held in 2005 the state had three Chief Ministers --Arjun Munda, Shibu Soren and Madhu Koda-- but names of all these independets remain attached with all of them as their cabinet collegues.

The ''real value'' of these independents was known in 2005 after Arjun Munda-led NDA was formed government in the state. Before that these MLAs were sent to Ajmer so that they remain united.

All of them also prayed for full tenure of Arjun Munda government but after few years they withdrew support to former saying that Munda-government was not working on their ''developmental agenda''.

Without wasting time they extended suport to Madhu Koda, an independent, and formed a UPA backed government in the state.

No sooner the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha chief claimed to form an alternative government after withdrewing support to the Koda government the team of those independents shifted their loyalty towards Mr Soren just few hours after claiming'' Hum Saat Saath Hain'' (all seven independents are united).

Setting a precdence of always being in power the independent MLAs have proved that the road leading to Chief Minister's official residence - 3, Kanke road-- passes thourgh thier door.

UNI AM PC KLC1407