As Bihar gears up for the Assembly elections on November 6 and 11, 2025, a notable shift in the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) strategy has emerged. The NDA, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], appears to be focusing on consolidating its core voter base, which involves a nuanced approach to candidate selection.

Fewer Yadav Candidates

One of the key observations is the apparent reduction in the number of Yadav candidates being fielded by the NDA, particularly by the BJP and JD(U). This is a noteworthy departure from traditional electoral strategies in Bihar, where the Yadav community holds significant political influence. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), known for its "MY" (Muslim-Yadav) electoral strategy, has announced 143 candidates, including Tejashwi Yadav.

Consolidating Core Support

The NDA's decision to field fewer Yadav candidates signals a strategic shift towards consolidating its existing support base. This could involve focusing on other caste groups and communities that have traditionally supported the alliance. The BJP, in particular, seems to be aiming to build a broader social coalition by appealing to various caste-based interest groups and horizontal identities such as youth, women, farmers, and senior citizens.

Seat Sharing and Alliance Dynamics

In a manifestation of the BJP's upper hand in the NDA, the BJP and JD(U) are contesting 101 seats each. The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJP(RV)) is contesting 29 seats, while the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) and Rashtriya Lok Morcha will contest six seats each. This seat-sharing arrangement highlights the changing power dynamics within the NDA, with the BJP playing a more dominant role.

The Opposition Mahagathbandhan

On the other side of the political spectrum, the Mahagathbandhan, comprising the RJD, Congress, and other smaller parties, faces its own challenges. The RJD has released a list of 143 candidates, including 24 women. However, the INDIA bloc appears fractured, with the RJD and Congress contesting against each other in five to six seats. The Congress will be contesting 61 seats.

Key Players and Campaigning

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch an extensive campaign, addressing a series of rallies across key regions. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also campaigning in Bihar and plans to hold more than 35 rallies. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is also scheduled to campaign in North and Central Bihar. Tejashwi Yadav will contest from the Raghopur assembly seat.

Other Factors

Several other factors could influence the outcome of the Bihar Assembly elections 2025. These include the role of dynastic politics, with many candidates from politically well-known families contesting the polls, and the presence of former election strategist Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party (JSP). The Election Commission of India is also taking measures to ensure free and fair elections.