Patna is the center of attention today as NDTV's "Power Play - Bihar" is set to host prominent national and state political figures for debates and discussions expected to significantly influence the upcoming assembly elections. With the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections drawing near, all eyes are on the strategies, alliances, and key constituencies that will determine the next government. The elections are scheduled to be held in two phases on November 6 and November 11, 2025, with the vote count and results declared on November 14.
Political Landscape
The political atmosphere is heating up as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahagathbandhan (MGB) engage in fierce exchanges. The NDA, which includes the BJP and JD(U), and the Mahagathbandhan, consisting of RJD, Congress, and Left parties, are the main contenders. Alliances are crucial in Bihar's political landscape, with smaller parties like LJP(RV), HAM, and VIP also playing significant roles.
A recent pre-poll survey indicates a close contest between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan. The NDA is predicted to have a marginal lead in vote share, but the Mahagathbandhan is close behind. Other surveys show varying predictions, with some suggesting an NDA victory and others indicating a potential edge for the Mahagathbandhan. These polls highlight the uncertainty and competitive nature of the upcoming elections.
Key Players and Promises
The Chief Ministerial candidates are a focal point of the election. Tejashwi Yadav is a popular choice for Chief Minister, followed by Nitish Kumar. Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj party is also gaining traction. The NDA has released its "Sankalp Patra" (manifesto), emphasizing employment, skills development, women's empowerment, and financial assistance to farmers. The manifesto includes promises of creating employment opportunities, empowering women, investing in agricultural infrastructure, and improving connectivity. Tejashwi Yadav plans to unveil the "Tejashwi Pran Patra" as the INDIA bloc's manifesto, outlining a roadmap to elevate Bihar as a leading state within five years.
Key Constituencies
Several key constituencies are expected to play a crucial role in determining the election outcome. These include Raghopur, the seat of Tejashwi Yadav; Lakhisarai, the home seat of BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha; and other constituencies such as Mahua, Patna Sahib, Tarapur and Phulwari. These constituencies are witnessing intense campaigning and high-profile contests.
Recent Developments and Challenges
The election period has also seen its share of controversies and challenges. The murder of Dularchand Yadav, a Jan Suraaj leader, has sparked concerns and heightened political tensions. Allegations of targeted pressure on Jan Suraaj candidates have further added to the charged atmosphere. Criminal charges against candidates are also a significant concern, with a report indicating that one in three candidates face such charges. The Election Commission has taken measures to revise the voter rolls, removing and adding names to ensure accuracy.
Voter Demographics and Sentiments
Voter demographics and sentiments are crucial in this election. Youth voters tend to favor the Mahagathbandhan, while older voters prefer the NDA. The Mahagathbandhan leads among Muslim-Yadav and Scheduled Caste communities, while the NDA is preferred by upper caste, NYOBC, and EBC groups. Anti-incumbency sentiments against the current government are notable, but the NDA still holds a competitive position.
The Bihar Assembly elections are set to be a closely contested affair. The outcome will depend on various factors, including alliance strategies, candidate choices, voter turnout, and the ability of parties to address key issues such as employment, development, and social justice. As the state gears up for the pre-poll showdown, the focus remains on how the political narratives unfold and resonate with the electorate.
