A serious dispute continues between RJD and Congress over seat-sharing in the Grand Alliance ahead of the Bihar Assembly Election 2025. Lalu Yadav distributed RJD party symbols without consent, impacting the alliance's unity and election preparations.
Patna: A serious political drama has unfolded regarding seat-sharing within the Grand Alliance ahead of the Bihar Assembly Election 2025. A deep deadlock persists between Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), threatening the alliance's unity. Lalu Prasad Yadav distributed RJD's election symbols (party symbol) to several candidates without any consensus, which Tejashwi Yadav later retracted. This development highlights internal tension and Congress's dissatisfaction in Bihar politics.
This dispute within the alliance is not only complicating the seat-sharing agreement but also affecting the preparations of candidates for the upcoming assembly elections. Both sides remain firm on their positions and do not appear ready for any compromise.
Discussions Between Tejashwi Yadav and Congress
A meeting between senior Congress leaders and Tejashwi Yadav in Delhi concluded without any resolution. Rahul Gandhi has instructed Congress leaders to engage in "tough negotiation," while RJD chief Tejashwi Yadav remains firm on his party's stance. This deadlock has impacted the alliance's election preparations.
Bihar Congress leaders sought intervention from Party President Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal, but Kharge advised the state leaders to speak directly with Tejashwi Yadav and try to resolve the issue by Tuesday.
Lalu Prasad Yadav Distributed RJD Symbols
Lalu Prasad Yadav distributed party election symbols to his loyalists and defectors on Monday. This move is reminiscent of the strategy adopted in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when he distributed several party tickets without the approval of alliance partners.
While returning from Delhi after appearing at Rouse Avenue Court in connection with the IRCTC scam, Lalu Yadav reached Rabri Devi's Patna residence. A large crowd had gathered there, and party candidates proudly displayed their election symbols. However, it was not clear how many candidates were officially given tickets.
RJD Tickets for Leaders from JDU
During this period, several prominent leaders received the RJD election symbol, indicating their candidacy. This includes Sunil Singh (Parbatta), who recently left Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U). Additionally, Narendra Kumar Singh alias Bogo, a multi-term MLA from Matihani, also received a ticket.
Current RJD MLAs Bhai Virendra, Chandrashekhar Yadav (Madhepura), and Israel Mansuri (Kanti) were also seen displaying the party symbol. This development indicates unity within the party and the preparedness of candidates.
Election Commission's Notification
The Election Commission has issued a notification for the second phase of the Bihar Assembly Election. The nomination process for 122 seats has begun in this phase. Candidates have only three days left to file nominations for the first phase.
Most political parties have not yet released their candidate lists, leading to delays in preparations. Meanwhile, the issue of seat-sharing between RJD and Congress is affecting the election strategy.
