The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar has confirmed its seat-sharing arrangement for the upcoming elections to the 243-member assembly. On Sunday, leaders from the NDA announced that both Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will contest 101 seats each, while the remaining 41 seats are allocated to smaller allies.
As per the finalized plan, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), led by Union Minister Chirag Paswan, has secured 29 constituencies. Additionally, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) of Jitan Ram Manjhi will contest six seats, along with Rashtriya Lok Morcha of Upendra Kushwaha, which also received six seats.
This seat-sharing marks a significant shift in dynamics, as it is the first time since 2005 when Nitish Kumar first led the NDA to power that the JD(U) will not contest more seats than the BJP. This decision reflects a growing influence of BJP and a declining standing for JD(U) in the state’s political landscape.
BJP’s Bihar poll in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan assured that all partners reached this consensus “in a cordial manner,” affirming, “Bihar is ready for another NDA government.” Leaders Chirag Paswan, Upendra Kushwaha, and JD(U) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha voiced similar sentiments, describing the discussions as “amicable and unanimous.”
Despite initial concerns regarding seat allocation, Jitan Ram Manjhi expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “We are satisfied with what we have received… I will stay with Prime Minister Narendra Modi till my last breath.” This statement reflects a commitment amid challenges within the coalition.
In the previous assembly polls held in 2020, JD(U) contested 115 seats while BJP fielded candidates in 110 seats, with HAM contesting seven seats. Notably, JD(U) managed to win only 43 seats, whereas BJP achieved a significantly better outcome by winning 74 seats. The results strained the alliance, prompting a brief exit from the NDA by Nitish Kumar.
The Bihar Assembly elections will occur in two phases—on November 6 and 11, followed by counting on November 14. Political observers are closely monitoring these developments, as the NDA seeks to retain its grip on Bihar amidst evolving electoral sentiments.
