Koda asked to prove majority by August 25

Jharkhand CM Madhu Koda has been directed by Governor Syed Sibtey Razi to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before August 25.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda was directed by Governor Syed Sibtey Razi Monday to prove on the floor of the house on or before August 25 whether he enjoyed majority support, a day after his government was reduced to minority following JMM's withdrawal of support.

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A one-line communique issued by the Raj Bhavan said Koda was asked to prove his majority in view of the "prevailing situation."

The Governor's direction came even as the mineral-rich state headed for a phase of political uncertainty with possibile President's Rule being not ruled out.

The JMM is reported to be exploring the possibility of government formation after the demand by its supremo Shibu Soren that he replace Koda as chief minister was ignored triggering the current political crisis.

Former Deputy Chief Minister of the state and JMM MLA Sudhir Mahto meanwhile told PTI, "We are making exercises to form the next government. The situation would be clear in a day or two."

Mahto had resigned yesterday from the Koda cabinet after the party withdrew support to the 23-month-old government.

A BJP-led NDA delegation and the Babulal Marandi-headed Jharkhand Vikas Morcha separately met Razi. BJP's state unit president P N Singh said the NDA had told the Governor to dismiss the "minority" Koda government.

Facing an uphill task to save his government, Koda put up a brave face saying he was confident of securing majority on the floor of the house.