On an early October morning in Kishanganj, Bihar, the winter chill was beginning to settle in as sunlight slowly illuminated the town. On October 23rd, local journalists gathered at the AIMIM head office, awaiting Akhtarul Iman, the party’s Bihar president and a sitting MLA from Amour, who is gearing up for another election campaign. This time, however, his candidacy is marred by controversy, with allegations of “money for tickets” surfacing against certain party leaders and ticket aspirants.
As time passed, the atmosphere shifted from curiosity to frustration among journalists. Cameras were poised, microphones at the ready, all anticipating a statement from Akhtarul Iman regarding the allegations.
Eventually, a white Fortuner arrived, and Iman stepped out, flanked by his team, heading directly into the press conference room.
Following the event, an interview was arranged with Iman. Although he faced a packed schedule of rallies and meetings across Seemanchal, he paused to engage briefly.
Mohammad Qasim: In the 2020 elections, AIMIM made a significant impact in Seemanchal, winning five seats and providing an alternative to voters. However, this time presents a different set of challenges, especially after four MLAs departed the party mid-term. How do you perceive these challenges?
Akhtarul Iman: Each election presents challenges. I entered this political arena fully aware that obstacles would arise. I believe we will navigate through these difficulties and emerge even more successful. Yes, four MLAs have left, but the core of our party—our workers and supporters—remains steadfast.
Mohammad Qasim: There are accusations that you and your party accepted money in exchange for tickets. Some claim candidates were asked to pay for their nominations. How do you respond?
Akhtarul Iman: First, consider the sources of these allegations. Many are individuals who were vying for tickets but didn’t succeed or those trying to sow discord within our ranks. There are also agents from rival parties who infiltrate AIMIM to disrupt our unity. Yet, we have numerous dedicated workers who may not have received tickets but continue to stand by us. Even parties like RJD and Congress cut tickets; we are perceived differently because we are principled. I’ve stated previously that there are multiple contenders for each ticket, but only one can be chosen. If individuals can’t stay loyal to the party after not receiving a ticket, perhaps it’s best they step aside.
Mohammad Qasim: Do you support awarding tickets to wealthy candidates, similar to other parties?
Akhtarul Iman: When selecting candidates, we focus on their support from the community and their capabilities to run effective campaigns. We must consider practicalities such as funding for printing materials, transportation, and even potential costs like helicopter rentals. This is part of the electoral process; however, it does not equate to selling tickets.
Mohammad Qasim: In what way is AIMIM different from other political parties?
Akhtarul Iman: AIMIM differentiates itself through our commitment to unity. We do not exploit divisions among people. Our stance is firmly with the poor, marginalized, and overlooked groups. AIMIM addresses the struggles of Seemanchal. Our leader, Asaduddin Owaisi, has been instrumental in bringing development initiatives to the region, such as infrastructure projects.
Mohammad Qasim: Regarding jailed activist Sharjeel Imam, who initially declared his intention to run from Bahadurganj but later withdrew, why did AIMIM not support him?
Akhtarul Iman: We empathize with Sharjeel Imam and recognize his struggles. However, I was uninformed about his candidacy decision and had no communication with him or his team on this matter.
Mohammad Qasim: Has there been any dialogue with the Mahagathbandhan, including RJD or Congress, regarding a possible alliance?
Akhtarul Iman: I have actively sought such an alliance, as evidenced by the public letters I sent. I made efforts to communicate my intentions, but it appears they were overlooked.
Mohammad Qasim: The conditions at the proposed Aligarh Muslim University campus in Kishanganj have deteriorated over the years. What actions have you taken regarding this issue?
Akhtarul Iman: After the Sachar Committee report, the Fatimi Committee was tasked with improving conditions for Muslims in various sectors, but its recommendations were largely ignored by the UPA government. I have advocated for the Kishanganj campus in the Bihar Assembly, even interrupting sessions to address this concern, but the Nitish Kumar-led and NDA governments have systematically delayed progress on this front. This reflects a collective betrayal.
Mohammad Qasim: AIMIM is often labeled as the “B-Team” of the BJP or accused of promoting communal politics. How do you address this?
Akhtarul Iman: Reflect back on the last parliamentary election—Tejashwi Yadav himself proclaimed in Purnia that if voters weren’t supporting INDIA, they should choose NDA. So, who is truly the B-Team? I advocate for the neglected voices in Seemanchal. In regions like Araria, Purnia, and Kishanganj, where a significant segment of the population is Muslim, the living conditions for non-Muslims are hardly any better. I fight for all communities, not just one. Our approach is the epitome of secularism; these accusations are unfounded and completely false.
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