As the Bihar Assembly elections draw near, Asaduddin Owaisi's All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has sparked considerable discussion by fielding non-Muslim candidates. This move marks a notable shift in the party's strategy, prompting political analysts to examine the motivations behind this decision. Here's a breakdown of why AIMIM is fielding non-Muslim candidates in the Bihar polls:

• Expanding appeal beyond traditional vote base: AIMIM has primarily been viewed as a party focused on Muslim interests. By fielding non-Muslim candidates, the party aims to broaden its appeal and demonstrate that its agenda encompasses the concerns of all marginalized communities. This can help the party shed the image of being solely a Muslim party and attract voters from other segments of the population. According to political analysts, this decision is an attempt to strengthen the party's position on Bihar's electoral map and make an impact among the non-Muslim vote bank.
• Strategic alliance building: In a state as politically diverse as Bihar, forging alliances is crucial for electoral success. By nominating candidates from different communities, AIMIM may be signaling its willingness to work with other groups and build a broader coalition. This approach could open doors for post-election partnerships and increase the party's influence in the government. AIMIM has formed a third-front alliance with Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party and Swami Prasad Maurya's Apni Janata Party to contest the Bihar Assembly elections.
• Challenging perceptions and fostering inclusivity: AIMIM's decision to field non-Muslim candidates can be seen as a symbolic move to challenge existing perceptions about the party and promote a more inclusive political environment. In the 2025 elections, AIMIM included two non-Muslim candidates in their list of 25 candidates. This sends a message that the party is not just for one particular community but represents the interests of all citizens, regardless of their religious background.

Context

AIMIM is contesting the Bihar elections independently, after having been rebuffed by the INDIA bloc. AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman had expressed willingness for a tie-up with RJD leaders Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav, but received no response. AIMIM will contest 35 assembly seats, Azad Samaj Party 25, and Apni Janata Party four seats. In the 2020 Assembly elections, AIMIM had won five seats. However, in 2022, four AIMIM MLAs joined the RJD, leaving Iman as the sole legislator from the party.

Political analysts suggest the Mahagathbandhan could face challenges in consolidating the Muslim vote with the entry of AIMIM and Prashant Kishore’s Jan Suraaj. AIMIM's strategy in Bihar is focused on constituencies with a sizeable Muslim population, which accounts for over 17 per cent of the state’s population but has historically had limited legislative representation. While the party faces accusations of splitting secular votes to benefit the BJP, Owaisi has consistently rejected such claims, criticising the RJD, JD(U), and Congress for neglecting Muslim interests.