As Bihar prepares for its assembly elections, both the NDA and INDIA alliances are facing internal challenges that could jeopardize their chances of success. The NDA, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and the INDIA alliance, under the leadership of RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav, are both projecting an image of strength, but underlying tensions are becoming increasingly apparent.
Chirag Paswan, a prominent figure within the NDA and a Union Minister, has launched a public critique of Nitish Kumar’s government, focusing on the state’s law and order situation. Paswan has expressed his disappointment with the government’s handling of rising crime rates, suggesting either administrative corruption or ineptitude. His approach mirrors his 2020 strategy, in which he ran independently to undermine the JDU’s vote share.
Simultaneously, in the INDIA alliance, Mukesh Sahani, the leader of VIP, is openly expressing his dissatisfaction with Tejashwi Yadav and demanding the Deputy Chief Minister position. Sahani’s demands are part of a familiar pattern. In 2020, he asked for seats and the Deputy CM post, but he eventually joined the NDA when his demands weren’t met.
The elections will be a critical test of the alliances’ ability to overcome internal conflicts and present a united front. The political situation is complex and requires careful navigation.