Bihar is gearing up for its Assembly elections in November 2025, and the political atmosphere is thick with the familiar scent of caste-based strategies. Parties are busy calculating caste arithmetic while also considering the implications of the state's recent caste survey. The question on everyone's mind: who is truly upholding the dream of Karpoori Thakur, the late socialist leader and former Chief Minister?.
Karpoori Thakur, a champion of the marginalized, envisioned a society where everyone, regardless of caste, could live with dignity. He paved the way for reservations for backward classes, even sacrificing his government for the cause. As parties vie for his legacy, it's crucial to examine their actions against his ideals.
Caste Calculations and Political Alignments
Bihar's electorate is a complex mosaic of castes and communities. The Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) constitute the largest segment at approximately 36.01%, followed by Other Backward Classes (OBCs) at 27.12%, Scheduled Castes (SCs) at 19.65%, Scheduled Tribes (STs) at 1.68%, and the General Category at around 15.38%.
- Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD): The RJD primarily relies on the support of Muslims (17.7% of the population) and Yadavs (around 14.3%).
- Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)): The JD(U) counts on the loyalty of the EBCs, which make up a substantial 36% of Bihar's population. However, the EBC voter base is fragmented into 113 castes. The non-Muslim EBC base, combined with Kurmi and Koeri votes, largely prefers to vote for Nitish Kumar.
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): The BJP traditionally leans on upper-caste blocs, including Brahmins, Rajputs, Bhumihars, and Kayasthas. The party is also trying to broaden its outreach to non-Yadav OBCs and EBCs.
- Lok Janshakti Party (LJP): The LJP targets Dalits, especially the Paswan community (around 9% of Bihar's population).
- Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAM(S)): HAM(S) represents Musahar Dalits (around 3%), a smaller but locally important force in some districts.
The Caste Survey Impact
The 2023 Bihar caste survey has further sharpened the focus on these caste dynamics. The survey revealed that OBCs and EBCs together constitute a significant 63.14% of the state's population. This data has prompted parties to recalibrate their alliances, seat-sharing, and candidate choices. The survey's findings have the potential to influence the upcoming elections, with parties vying for credit and attempting to shape their narratives around the data.
Living Up to Karpoori's Dream?
With parties strategically aligning with specific caste groups, the question arises: who is truly living up to Karpoori Thakur's dream of social justice and equality?
Some argue that the emphasis on caste-based politics undermines Karpoori's vision of a society where everyone is treated equally, irrespective of their social background. Others believe that empowering marginalized castes through political representation is a step towards fulfilling his dream.
Several factors will determine the outcome of the 2025 elections and which party, if any, can genuinely claim to be carrying forward Karpoori Thakur's legacy. These include:
- Representation of all communities: Ensuring that all caste groups, including the most marginalized, have a voice in the government.
- Equitable distribution of resources: Implementing policies that address the socio-economic disparities among different caste groups.
- Commitment to social justice: Working towards a society where caste-based discrimination is eradicated.
As Bihar heads towards the 2025 Assembly elections, the parties' actions will determine whether they are merely engaging in caste arithmetic or genuinely striving to realize Karpoori Thakur's vision of a more just and equitable society. The voters will ultimately decide who, if anyone, is worthy of carrying forward his legacy.
