In the wake of the multiple bridge collapses in Bihar, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Jitan Ram Manjhi on Saturday alleged conspiracy.
There might be a "conspiracy" behind the incidents of bridge collapse in Bihar to defame the BJP-led government.
"Why has the state suddenly started witnessing incidents of bridge collapse? Why is it happening after the Lok Sabha polls? Why were such incidents not taking place a month before? I suspect some conspiracy behind it. Authorities concerned must look into this aspect," said former CM Manjhi. He heads the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM).
In just over a week five bridges collapsed across the state. Bridges collapsed in Araria, Siwan, East Champaran, Kishanganj and Madhubani districts.
"There might be some conspiracy to defame the state government," said Manjhi.
However, he also added that the incidents were a matter of grave concern.
"It is happening because of the sub-standard material being used by contractors. The state government is taking action against such contractors. The state authorities are probing the matter as well. I also request them to probe the conspiracy angle," he added.
Manjhi added that the government is committed to initiating an inquiry against the engineers and contractors responsible for the execution of bridges in Bihar.
In Bihar’s Kishanganj, a portion of a 13-year-old bridge collapsed isolating hundreds of villagers from the mainland.
Hitting out at the Nitish Kumar-led government, former deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav criticised for inaction.
“This is the 5th bridge to collapse in Bihar within nine days. A bridge under construction for years on the Bhootahi River between Madhubani-Supaul collapsed. Did you find out? If not, why? Try to find out?" wrote Yadav.
