The Imamganj constituency in Gaya district has become a test of prestige for Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) chief Jitan Ram Manjhi, currently a Union minister. His daughter-in-law Deepa Kumari, the sitting MLA, faces a challenging contest against RJD candidate Ritu Priya Chaudhary and Jan Suraaj's Ajeet Kumar. Manjhi, a key leader of the Musahar community, had represented Imamganj for two terms since 2015 before becoming an MP in 2024. Deepa won a bypoll in November 2024 by 5,945 votes. However, ground voices reveal widespread dissatisfaction with the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government, particularly over the prohibition policy implemented in April 2016. Residents claim the alcohol ban exists only on paper, with liquor easily available from neighbouring Jharkhand or through home delivery. Voters also criticize lack of development, unemployment, and inadequate healthcare and education facilities. The outcome in Imamganj, one of six seats allocated to HAM(S) in the NDA alliance, could significantly impact Manjhi's political standing.
Prohibition Policy Criticized as Ineffective
Residents across Imamganj express frustration with the state's alcohol ban, calling it a failure. Ram Chandra Yadav noted that liquor remains readily accessible despite the April 2016 prohibition. Since Imamganj borders Jharkhand, many travel there to drink and return. Others reported that alcohol is now delivered directly to homes through phone orders. While some women acknowledged that public spaces feel safer, they pointed out that domestic violence continues as men drink at home instead. The higher cost of illegal liquor has increased household expenses. Several locals argued that prohibition has not reduced crime and has instead pushed people toward drugs or spurious alcohol. They blame police and officials for profiting from the ban by arresting drinkers and imposing fines rather than catching bootleggers.
Development Concerns and Unemployment Issues
Voters raised serious questions about the lack of development under Manjhi's decade-long representation. Ashraf Ali criticized government initiatives as existing only on paper, citing that his village Dhuar had to crowdfund to build a graveyard boundary wall six months ago despite state claims of providing such infrastructure. Residents highlighted the absence of major colleges or hospitals in Imamganj, forcing people to travel 70 kilometers to Gaya town for essential services. Deepak Kumar, 24, identified unemployment as a critical problem, with people surviving on farming, daily wage labor, or small businesses. The lack of jobs pushes many youth into bad company and substance abuse. While RJD MP Abhay Kushwaha visits the area, his ability to bring development remains limited without being in power.
Source: Link