JMM hopes fade, J’khand all set for President’s rule

Not satisfied with the progress the JMM has made in its attempt to cobble together a majority, Jharkhand Governor Syed Ahmed is likely to recommend that the Assembly be kept in suspended animation, leading to the proclamation of President's rule.

Raj Bhavan sources said the Governor's recommendation is likely to be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs late Saturday or early Sunday. "This morning, Shibu Soren failed to provide a time frame for the formation of a government. He wanted more time, but was not able to clarify how much time he needs. On Sunday, it will be five days since Arjun Munda submitted his resignation. This uncertainty cannot be allowed to continue," said the source.

If imposed, this will be the third bout of President's rule in Jharkhand.

Earlier in the day, the possibility of the JMM, Congress and RJD stitching together an alliance looked bright when leaders of the three parties separately met the Governor. The JMM delegation, led by party chief Shibu Soren and son Hemant Soren, met the Governor at 10.30 am. The Congress and RJD delegations followed separately. Hemant said: "There is every chance of us forming a government. We asked His Excellency for more time.... How much time we get is up to him."

Congress leader Rajendra Prasad said, "No legislator wants President's Rule here; there are two years left in this assembly's tenure, after all. We are talking to our leaders in Delhi, trying to work out a solution."

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