Rajesh Ram Calls Claims Of Directing MLAs To Skip Rajya Sabha Vote Baseless

Bihar Congress president Rajesh Ram on Tuesday categorically denied claims that he had instructed party MLAs to abstain from voting in the Rajya Sabha elections held on Monday, calling the allegations “completely baseless.” The rebuttal came after Congress MLA Manoj Vishwas from Forbesganj claimed he abstained from voting on the direction of the state party chief.

Speaking to IANS, Ram stressed his long-standing loyalty to the Congress party and rejected any suggestion of misconduct. “Posts may come and go, but a person’s reputation is built with great difficulty. I categorically deny these allegations,” he said. He added that he had repeatedly tried to contact the MLAs ahead of the voting, visiting their residences and making numerous calls and messages, but received no responses.

Ram also highlighted past instances where attempts were made to lure him with political offers, including promises of MLC positions, ministerial posts, and flats, which he said he and his team had rejected to remain committed to the party. “While holding this responsibility, I can never betray the party,” he asserted, reaffirming his dedication to Congress.

Also Read: Odisha Rajya Sabha Polls See Cross-Voting As MLAs Support BJP-Backed Independent

The controversy follows reports that several Congress MLAs, including Manoj Vishwas, Surendra Kushwaha, and Manohar Prasad Singh, abstained from voting. Vishwas cited dissatisfaction over the Mahagathbandhan candidate Amrendra Dhari Singh, who belongs to the Bhumihar community, claiming the RJD had not consulted Congress leadership in the state. He added that many Congress legislators represent Dalit, OBC, and minority communities and expected their perspectives to be respected.

Surendra Kushwaha expressed displeasure over candidate selection, advocating for RJD leader Deepak Yadav instead, while Manohar Prasad Singh said the alliance had failed to nominate a candidate from Dalit, OBC, or minority communities. Both MLAs clarified that their protest did not indicate a departure from Congress.

The incident has heightened internal tensions within the Bihar Congress, reflecting ongoing challenges of alliance coordination and caste-based dynamics in state politics. Despite the abstentions, Rajesh Ram reaffirmed the commitment of party members to the Congress and called for unity following the Rajya Sabha election outcomes.

Also Read: Voting Underway For 11 Rajya Sabha Seats Across Bihar, Odisha, Haryana