Dimple Jha’s resignation shakes RJPN-Samajbadi coalition

KATHMANDU, Jan 29: Province 2 State Minister for Physical Infrastructure Dimple Kumari Jha resigned from her post on Tuesday expressing discontent over the working style of the provincial government.

However, theories have suggested otherwise— the rise of a new political equation in the Madhesh amid rumors that Rastriya Janata Party Nepal and ruling Nepal Communist Party are in play to bring changes in the provincial government.

Following the victory of the RJPN-Federal Socialist Forum Nepal (now Samajbadi after merging with Dr. Baburam Bhattarai-led Naya Shakti) led by Upendra Yadav in the 2017 Elections, the two regional parties formed a coalition government in the Province 2. The Province Assembly is currently headed by Samajbadi’s Lal Babu Raut.

RJPN member Dimple Jha was elected as a member of Province 2 under proportional representation electoral system and is the spouse of RJPN presidium member Anil Jha, who is one of those in favor of quitting Yadav coalition.

After months-long effort to convince Yadav for merger made no headway, the RJPN turned its face to the ruling NCP and reached a significant two-point agreement ahead of the National Assembly Election. The electoral alliance in Province 2 rewarded it two seats in the upper house, and the RJPN now looks forward to forming a coalition with the largest party.

RJPN has publicly stated that they have no intention to oust Samajbadi in Province 2 but also hinted at a possible coalition with the NCP-led government if their demands of the constitution amendment, the release of their leaders and dropping of the criminal charges put against them would be addressed.

If the RJPN and NCP ally, they will have an absolute majority to form a new government in Province 2. If it happens, RJPN will get the Chief Minister.

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