Bihar's political landscape is currently experiencing significant turmoil. A recent "political invitation" extended by RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi has sparked considerable speculation within power circles.
Patna: Bihar's political scene is in a state of flux. The political invitation issued by RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi has generated new discussions in the corridors of power. Conversely, their son and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav appears to be adopting a different stance from his parents. Meanwhile, the NDA continues to grapple with seat-sharing issues, and the Congress is preparing to contest the elections independently. This upheaval in Bihar's politics could lead to several new political equations.
Invitation to Nitish, but Tejashwi's Attack
Lalu Yadav has once again invited Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to rejoin the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). However, Nitish Kumar hasn't outright rejected the proposal; instead, he has subtly avoided a direct response. Interestingly, while Lalu and Rabri are portraying the Mahagathbandhan's doors as open to Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav continues to relentlessly attack the Nitish government. Tejashwi has questioned the government's performance, calling the Chief Minister "old" and claiming that the administration is now being run by bureaucrats.
NDA's Seat-Sharing Tussle
Uncertainty persists regarding seat allocation within the NDA. Coordination between JD(U), BJP, HAM, RLSP, and LJP (R) is proving challenging. Nitish Kumar aspires to win over 120 seats, a calculation the BJP seems unwilling to accept. Amidst this friction, Lalu Yadav is attempting to capitalize on the cracks within the NDA.
Will Nitish Change His Mind Again?
Given Nitish Kumar's political history, the question of whether he might switch alliances again is inevitable. He has previously shifted between the BJP and RJD on multiple occasions. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement that "the BJP Parliamentary Board will decide Bihar's next Chief Minister" has caused unease within the JD(U). Conversely, BJP leader Vijay Sinha stated that "a true tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee would be a BJP government with a full majority in Bihar." These statements have further widened the rift between the JD(U) and BJP.
Lalu's Political Maneuvers and Future Strategy
Congress's strategy in Bihar is also becoming a headache for the Mahagathbandhan. Congress is now indicating its intention to contest the elections independently, which could weaken the RJD's position. If Congress withdraws from the Mahagathbandhan, the opposition unity could suffer a severe blow. Despite his health challenges, Lalu Yadav's political activity is intensifying. He aims to present the Mahagathbandhan as a b alternative to the people of Bihar.
By speaking of "driving away communal forces," he has signaled his intention to launch a major offensive against the BJP. Simultaneously, Tejashwi Yadav is focusing on issues like youth and employment to establish his independent political stature.
Will Bihar Witness Another Major Political Upheaval?
Alliance-shifting and defections are nothing new in Bihar's political landscape. Lalu Yadav's strategy, Nitish Kumar's future plans, and the evolving equation between the BJP and JD(U) will determine the winner of the 2025 Assembly elections. However, one thing is clear: Bihar's politics is poised for significant changes in the coming months.
