Bihar Assembly Election 2025: Alliances, Key Candidates, and Political Dynamics

Bihar is set to witness a high-stakes assembly election on November 6 and 11, 2025, with results scheduled for November 14. The election will determine the composition of the 18th Bihar Legislative Assembly, comprising 243 seats. The contest is primarily between the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA alliance, with several regional parties also playing crucial roles.

Seat-Sharing Negotiations and Alliance Dynamics

The NDA, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is engaged in intense seat-sharing discussions with its allies, including Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) [LJP-RV], Hindustan Awami Morcha (HAM), and Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP). Chirag Paswan of LJP-RV has demanded 40 seats, while the BJP has offered 25. This discrepancy has led to tensions within the alliance, with the possibility of a tie-up between Paswan and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party adding to the complexity. Indiatimes

JD(U) has emphasized the importance of Nitish Kumar’s leadership, with slogans like “25 se 30 Nitish” indicating their preference for him as the Chief Ministerial candidate. However, the BJP has been cautious about endorsing a single face for the top post, opting instead for a collective leadership approach. Navbharat Times

Opposition Strategies and Key Contenders

The opposition INDIA alliance comprises the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress, CPI, CPI(M), CPI(ML), and VIP. Tejashwi Yadav of RJD is the primary Chief Ministerial candidate, aiming to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments. The Congress is finalizing its candidate list, with Rajesh Kumar leading the party’s efforts. The Economic Times

Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party is emerging as a significant third force, focusing on issues like unemployment, migration, and special status for Bihar. Kishor’s entry into the electoral fray adds a new dimension to the state’s political landscape. The Economic Times

Controversial Candidacies and Electoral Implications

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) has fielded a candidate with a controversial background from the Sherghati seat in Gaya district. The nominee is a known history-sheeter, raising concerns about the party’s candidate selection process. The Times of India

Electoral Schedule and Voter Engagement

The Election Commission has announced that voting will occur in two phases: November 6 and 11, with counting on November 14. Over 8.5 lakh election officials will be deployed to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process. www.ndtv.com

Conclusion

The 2025 Bihar Assembly elections are poised to be a pivotal event in the state’s political history. With complex alliances, emerging third parties, and a diverse electorate, the outcome will significantly influence Bihar’s governance in the coming years. Voter participation and engagement will be crucial in determining the future direction of the state.