Political activity in Bihar has intensified once again. Speculation is rife about Mukesh Sahni, the leader of the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) and former minister, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Patna: Bihar's political landscape is witnessing another significant shift. Ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, new speculation has gained momentum regarding the political direction of Mukesh Sahni, the head of the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP). Political circles are abuzz with discussions suggesting Sahni might leave the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) and join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), potentially inflicting a significant blow to Tejashwi Yadav and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Recently, BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal fueled this possibility with a statement. Although he didn't name any party or leader, his words clearly indicated that a "b ally" within the Mahagathbandhan is attempting to forge an alliance with the BJP.
Dilip Jaiswal's Statement Becomes the Focus of Discussion
Speaking to the media on April 16, Dilip Jaiswal stated, "Our alliance currently has five Pandavas (BJP, JDU, LJP Ram Vilas, HAM, RLM). But a b partner of the Mahagathbandhan is playing hide-and-seek at night and trying to join us. If they approach us respectfully, we can consider it." When asked if he was referring to Mukesh Sahni, he remained silent, saying, "I will not name anyone."
Changed Strategy? Sahni Previously Demanded the Deputy Chief Minister's Post in the Mahagathbandhan
It is noteworthy that Mukesh Sahni has been holding public gatherings in various districts of Bihar in recent months, openly stating that if the Mahagathbandhan comes to power, Tejashwi Yadav will be the Chief Minister and he himself would be the Deputy Chief Minister. However, there has been no official response from the RJD or Tejashwi Yadav so far.
Recently, in a party meeting, Mukesh Sahni stated that the VIP party would contest 60 seats, aiming to win at least 40. He believes that reservation and empowerment for the Nishad community are only possible if his party has a decisive presence in the Assembly.
Shifting Political Equations
If Mukesh Sahni joins hands with the BJP, it would be a major setback for the Mahagathbandhan's strategy. It would particularly impact the Nishad community's vote bank, which is considered bly aligned with Sahni. Political analysts believe:
• A potential rapprochement between VIP and BJP could give rise to new political equations.
• Sahni's strength lies in caste equations, which the BJP might aim to leverage in the 2025 elections.
• Tejashwi Yadav's silence on the Deputy Chief Minister's post might have made Sahni feel insecure.
Following the BJP's statement, the response from Mukesh Sahni and his party is awaited. Whether they remain in the Mahagathbandhan or switch political allegiances again is likely to become clear in the coming days.
