Former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha leader Jitan Ram Manjhi on Thursday took his political mentor and successor Nitish Kumar to task over the fruits controversy, saying it shows the twisted mindset of the Janata Dal (United) leader.
“This shows Nitish Kumar’s twisted mindset that a person from the Scheduled Caste cannot access the fruits,” Manjhi said.
“When Lalu ji was in this house was this security provision made? This is not respectable,” he added.
Nitish earlier took a jibe at Manjhi and said that he would buy mangoes for those least interested about serving the people.
“I don’t have knowledge about all this. I am not aware of such a frivolous issue. Some people develop affection for a few things within a short span of time. We are more concerned about the people, and those concerned about the mangoes should be given the fruit in ample numbers. What’s the problem in that?” Nitish asked.
According to reports, 24 policemen are currently safeguarding 100 litchi, mango and jackfruit trees on the property, which Manjhi continues to occupy despite not being the chief minister.
Manjhi had refused to vacate the official chief minister’s residence after demitting office in February, claiming that he had not been granted an alternative accommodation.
As a result, Nitish Kumar works from 7, Circular House, allotted to him in his capacity as the former chief minister.
Manjhi had after being ousted from the JD (U) floated the ‘Hindustani Awam Morcha’.
The Hindustani Awam Morcha has been formed to counter the JD (U) ahead of Bihar Assembly polls to be held later this year. (ANI)