Chakai: Sumit Singh is in fray as independent candidate

By Sanjay Singh

PATNA: Chakai’s result determine the clout of former minister Narendra Singh. His son Sumit Singh is in the fray as an independent candidate. Sumit Singh, who had won Chakai seat as JMM’s nominee, wanted to contest the election from Chakai as Manjhi’s HAM. However, Ram Vilas Paswan led LJP got Chakai and Singh entered the fray as independent.

Sumit Singh’s brother Ajay Kumar is BJP’s nominee in neighbouring Jamui. A big reason for LJP’s interest in Chakai is that it falls under the Jamui parliamentary seat, represented by Paswan’s son Chirag. Joining the contest at Chakai is RJD nominee Savitri Devi, the widow of Phalguni Yadav who won the seat in 1977 as an independent.

Bhumihars, who have a sizeable population in Chakai, may play a key role. "With RJD fielding Savitri, it’s now a triangular contest. Singh’s family is trying hard to woo Bhumihars," a source said. LJP chief Paswan has his support among Bhumihars. "LJP team is also eyeing Bhumihar votes," the source said.