Manjhi expelled from JD(U)

The expulsion came ahead of Nitish Kumar's meeting with Governor Keshri Nath Tripathi to stake claim to form government

Jitan Ram Manjhi, who refused to step down as Bihar Chief Minister and make way for Nitish Kumar, was today expelled by JD(U) President Sharad Yadav for indulging in "anti-party activities."

The expulsion came ahead of Nitish Kumar's meeting with Governor Keshri Nath Tripathi at 1:30 p.m to stake claim to form government.

Manjhi, who was sacked as the JD-U legislature party leader at a meeting of the party's MLA's yesterday, had said, "Manjhi ki nao kabhi nahin dubti hain (Manjhi's boat never sinks)".

Manjhi was part of Nitish Kumar government in 2005 as well as in 2010 before taking the mantle from him on May 19 last year after Kumar resigned.

Manjhi, who is all set for a final showdown with mentor Nitish Kumar, has arrived in Patna from New Delhi.

Ruling out his resignation without a trial of strength in Assembly, Manjhi had said yesterday that he will prove his majority on the floor of the House or step down if he fails, and attacked Nitish Kumar for his "greed for power".

Manjhi headed straight to Raj Bhawan from Patna Airport to take part in the swearing-in of Chief Information Commissioner at 12:30 PM.

Senior minister Narendra Singh, who is Manjhi's chief advisor, accompanied Manjhi from New Delhi.

Minister Vinay Bihari, MLAs Raju Singh, Sumit Singh and others received them at Patna Airport. Sadhu Yadav, controversial brother-in-law of RJD President Lalu Prasad was also at the airport to receive Manjhi.