In a significant turn for Bihar’s political alignment, the Janata Dal (United) led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is no longer in a dominant position within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The party has agreed to contest the same number of seats as its rival ally, BJP, for the state assembly elections, reflecting a shift in power balance and influence within the coalition.
Key Change: Equal Seat Sharing with BJP
- For the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025, the NDA has finalized a seat sharing arrangement where BJP and JD(U) will contest 101 seats each in the 243 member Assembly.
- Previously, JD(U) had consistently received a larger share of seats and held more sway in the coalition. In the 2020 elections, JD(U) had contested 115 seats, while BJP had contested 110.
Internal Discontent and Signs of Friction
- The decision has stirred dissatisfaction within JD(U). Some leaders allege that ticket allocations are unfair, and statements calling certain processes within the party a “hijack” have emerged.
- Former JD(U) minister Jai Kumar Singh has publicly expressed concern over the seat allocation formula, indicating fears that the party is losing its influence.
- Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) also showed visible displeasure over getting only six seats though it had asked for more.
Political Implications & What This Signals
- Shift in Power Balance: This is the first time since 2005 that JD(U) and BJP have been given equal seats in Bihar by NDA. The shift underlines BJP’s increasing clout in the state and possibly signals that the central leadership is pushing for more symmetry within the alliance.
- Strategic Sacrifice by JD(U)? Analysts believe that JD(U) may have accepted this role to maintain coalition unity and avoid conflict, considering its performance in recent elections and the rise of BJP’s influence.
- Rise of Smaller NDA Partners: Parties like LJP (Ram Vilas) secured 29 seats, while HAM and RLM (Rashtriya Lok Morcha) got six seats each. These numbers show the growing importance of smaller allies in NDA’s arithmetic.
What to Watch Ahead
- Performance of JD(U) in Their Key Constituencies: Will equal seat allotment affect their vote share or morale among party workers?
- Campaign Strategy Differences Between BJP and JD(U): More equal seats may lead to sharper competition or differentiated messaging.
- Reaction from Local Leaders: Ticket rejections or seat losses will likely lead to unrest in local leadership ranks.
- Impact on Voters’ Perception: Will people see JD(U) as losing power, or admire the alliance unity?
Quotes Reflecting the Mood
A local JD(U) leader said:
“We accepted 101 seats to ensure NDA remains united. But there is concern among workers that our traditional strength areas are not being properly considered.”
BJP leaders, on the other hand, are publicly welcoming the arrangement as a demonstration of alliance maturity and parity.
Summary
- What changed: JD(U) and BJP will contest equal seats (101 each) in Bihar.
- Why it matters: Signals a shift in political influence and recognition within NDA, smaller allies gain more prominence.
- Upshot: JD(U) must now navigate shared power, internal pressures, and emerging challenges to its leadership while BJP advances its organizational strength.