Uncertainty in Bihar, UF in Manipur ahead in efforts for power

Uncertainty in Bihar, UF in Manipur ahead in efforts for power
PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

NEW DELHI, FEB 26: Uncertainty over the new government gripped Bihar as ruling RJD and BJP-led NDA were tied at 122 seats each falling way behind majority, while Manipur's ruling United Front edged ahead in the race to capture power after a hung verdict.

Decks were cleared for takeover by BJD leader Naveen Patnaik in Orissa and INLD Chief Om Prakash Chautala in Haryana after their parties swept to power with clear majority.

With only one result to be declared in the elections to 324-member Bihar Assembly, jockeying for power gathered hectic pace as RJD, which was written off by pollsters, emerged as the single largest party with 122 seats and NDA finished with an equal number of seats. BJP secured 67, Samata Party 34 and JD (U) 21.

Congress and JMM (S) with 23 and 12 seats respectively and Independents 20 emerged as key players to influence the course of government formation.

BJP mounted efforts to rope in support from outside NDA and despatched senior leader Kailashpati Mishra to Bihar for this purpose amidst indications from the party that JMM(S) and Independents might be targetted.

NDA leaders were closeted here tonight in their bid to woo MLAs outside the alliance and to thrash out the thorny issue of chief ministership. Defence Minister George Fernandes was said to be involved in hectic behind-the-scene efforts.