'Misunderstanding' between Jitan Ram Manjhi and Nitish Kumar ends: JD(U)

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and his predecessor Nitish Kumar have resolved through talks the "misunderstanding" triggered by some recent utterances of the CM, a senior JD(U) leader said today.

"It was an open and heartful talk between the two leaders last night and the misunderstanding created by some recent utterances of Manjhi was cleared," Bihar JD(U) chief Basistha Narayan Singh told PTI.

Singh said Kumar had advised Manjhi to discharge his responsibility with more "alertness and precaution" so that no confusion was created and BJP did not get an opportunity to exploit that politically.

Amid reports of power tussle between Manjhi and Kumar which gained currency after five ministers skipped a function in which the chief minister was present on Thursday, Manjhi visited Kumar's residence last night unscheduled.

Asked if Manjhi would join Kumar's 'Samparak Yatra' starting from November 13, Singh said "if he gets time from his hectic official schedule and join the yatra it will be welcomed."

Notwithstanding the statement of Singh, NDA leaders attacked Kumar for "humiliating" the chief minister.

Union minister and LJP President Ramvilas Paswan hit out at Kumar for frequently "humiliating" Manjhi by calling a meeting of legislators at his residence and ministers close to him boycotting his programme.

"Kaun sa rajniti kar rahe hai Nitish Kumar (what kind of politics is Nitish doing)?" Paswan told reporters at Patna Airport.

Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) chief and Union Minister of State for Rural Development Upendra Kushwaha also slammed Kumar for "slighting" Manjhi.

"It's an old habbit of Kumar," Kushwaha, friend-turned foe of the senior JD(U) leader, said.