Rahul Gandhi's Voter Rights Yatra Exposed Congress's Position in Mithilanchal. Public reactions, caste equations, and local issues have made the upcoming assembly elections challenging for Congress.
Bihar Politics: The political atmosphere in Bihar's Mithilanchal region is not easy for Congress. Rahul Gandhi's Voter Rights Yatra has brought to light the party's political standing in this area. During the journey from Darbhanga to Sitamarhi, people conveyed political messages despite the rain and expressed their reactions through gestures. In Muzaffarpur, amidst crowds and slogans, women and youth observed Rahul Gandhi's convoy. During this time, the enthusiasm of supporters and discussions on caste equations also came to the fore prominently.
Impact of the Yatra and Local Conditions
In Fulparas and surrounding panchayats like Goriari, Saini, and Dhanauja, the fields are dry and there is no water in the taps, despite the rainfall. Farmers faced considerable hardship during the summer. Local residents do not consider the government's provisions sufficient but are aware of their rights and identity. This is why, during the Yatras of Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav, people expressed their reactions more through gestures than words.
Rahul Gandhi's Welcome and People's Expectations
During his visit to Mithilanchal, Rahul Gandhi showed interest in 'Maach-Makhana' (fish and fox nuts) and the region's sweet dialect. In Muzaffarpur, at Gayaghat, a group of women pointed towards young supporters riding over 4000 motorcycles. This scene was part of MLA Niranjan Rai's program. Rahul Gandhi's convoy proceeded, raising dust for four kilometers, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined the convoy amidst slogans. This scene was a clear indication of the region's political curiosity and support.
Caste Equations and Political Strategy
Caste equations play a significant role in politics in Mithilanchal. A sense of unity was clearly visible among the Yadav and Paswan communities. This community is conscious of its strength in local elections and strives to make clear decisions regarding its votes. Local people vote based on their earnings and self-respect and do not accept any form of coercion. For this reason, formulating a regional strategy for Congress is challenging.
Analysis of Congress's Past Electoral Performance
Congress's performance in Mithilanchal in previous assembly elections has been mixed. In 2020, Congress fielded candidates in 70 seats but secured only 19 victories, with no significant achievements in Mithilanchal. Even after joining the Grand Alliance in 2015, Congress managed to win only three seats. The party's position remained weak when it contested alone in 2010. Overall, Congress's hold in Mithilanchal is relatively weak, and it needs to change its strategy to increase regional support.
Mithilanchal's Position in Assembly Elections
Mithilanchal comprises a total of 51 assembly seats, including the districts of Saharsa, Supaul, Madhepura, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, and Samastipur. This region is politically sensitive due to caste equations and local issues. It is not easy for Congress to establish a b foothold in this area. Presenting local problems such as water scarcity, dry fields, and unemployment as electoral issues will be a crucial part of Congress's strategy.
