Patna

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan, also known as Lalan Singh, recently claimed that despite numerous welfare initiatives by the Nitish Kumar government, Muslims do not vote for JD(U). Speaking at a JD(U) workers’ conference in Muzaffarpur, Singh outlined several reforms under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, aimed at improving conditions for the minority community. He highlighted the pay rise for madrasa teachers, whose salaries, previously just Rs 4,000 under Lalu-Rabri’s rule, have now been increased in line with the Seventh Pay Commission recommendations.

Singh criticized the political inclinations of the Muslim community, suggesting that the parties they support have not contributed to their development. He urged party workers to acknowledge that the minority community does not vote for Nitish Kumar, despite the government’s efforts to support them through education and welfare programs.

In response, JD(U) leader Mohammad Jamal countered Singh’s statement, asserting that the Muslim community strongly supports Nitish Kumar and JD(U). He cited examples from the Belaganj by-election and the Lok Sabha elections, where significant support from Muslims for JD(U) candidates was evident.

RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmed, however, condemned Singh’s remarks, accusing JD(U) of aligning with the BJP and promoting divisive ideologies in Bihar, further intensifying political tensions.