CPI's D Raja Calls for More Seats in Bihar Assembly Elections Amidst Alliance Negotiations

D Raja, general secretary of CPI, emphasises the party's significance in Bihar and urges RJD and Congress to provide a fair number of seats for the upcoming assembly elections.

The Communist Party of India (CPI) is seeking a greater number of seats in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. General Secretary D Raja expressed optimism that senior alliance partners, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, will accommodate this request. Raja highlighted the CPI's organisational strength and its ability to transfer votes as reasons for deserving more seats than the six contested in 2020.

During the CPI's 25th state conference, Raja mentioned that informal discussions have taken place with RJD President Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav. He emphasised the need for a fair allocation of seats to ensure the CPI's significant presence in Bihar is not diminished. "CPI is a force to reckon with in Bihar... A respectable share for us will ensure the victory of the ‘Mahagathbandhan’," Raja asserted.

Alliance Dynamics and Seat Allocation

Other parties, such as CPIML Liberation and Mukesh Sahni's Vikassheel Insan Party, are also demanding more seats. Raja urged RJD and Congress to be realistic in their seat distribution to maintain alliance harmony. The CPI believes that a fair share will contribute to the success of the 'Mahagathbandhan' coalition in Bihar.

Raja also addressed journalists' questions about the CPI's expectations amid these demands. He reiterated that a balanced seat allocation would strengthen the alliance's chances of winning against the ruling BJP-led NDA. The CPI aims to play a pivotal role in ensuring electoral success for the coalition.

Electoral Roll Concerns and Supreme Court Ruling

Raja expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court's decision to accept Aadhaar cards as one of the documents for voter registration. However, he criticised the Election Commission's handling of the special intensive revision process. The CPI was among those challenging this exercise due to perceived inadequacies.

"We will keep a close watch on what the Election Commission does," Raja stated, highlighting concerns over electoral roll management. The party remains vigilant about ensuring fair voter registration practices ahead of elections.

Vice Presidential Support and Political Climate

Regarding the vice presidential polls, Raja confirmed CPI's support for INDIA bloc candidate Justice B Sudarshan Reddy. "The CPI will give its full support to INDIA bloc candidate Justice B Sudarshan Reddy, whose commitment towards upholding the values enshrined in the Constitution is known to all," he said.

Earlier at the conference, Raja praised Bihar's response to Rahul Gandhi's 'Voter Adhikar Yatra.' He expressed hope that divisive politics allegedly practised by BJP-led NDA would be defeated in Bihar. The CPI remains committed to promoting unity and constitutional values in its political endeavours.

The CPI is determined to secure a significant role in Bihar's political landscape through strategic alliances and active participation in upcoming elections. By advocating for fair seat distribution and supporting constitutional values, it aims to strengthen its influence within the state's political framework.

With inputs from PTI