New Delhi: With nominations underway for the Bihar Assembly elections, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) finds itself entangled in a heated seat-sharing dispute.
Rashtriya Lok Morcha leader Upendra Kushwaha has voiced strong discontent, terming unverified media reports on the deal as “deception” and urging supporters to stay vigilant.
Kushwaha took to social media to clarify that negotiations remain inconclusive. “Don’t believe stray reports; talks are ongoing. Wait patiently! If someone is planting stories, it’s a betrayal. “Stay alert,” he posted, amid swirling rumours of a finalised formula.
Political circles buzz with whispers that Kushwaha is pushing for over six seats for his party, beyond the BJP’s reported offer of six. His wishlist includes strongholds like Ujiyarpur, Mahua, Dinara, Bajpatti, Sasaram, plus one in Magadh and either Khajouli or Madhubani. Insiders say a breakthrough hinges on today’s crucial meeting.
The NDA’s top brass, including Chirag Paswan of LJP (Ram Vilas) and Jitan Ram Manjhi of HAM, are converging in Delhi for a high-stakes huddle with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Speculation is rife that the seat-sharing pact could be unveiled post-discussion, potentially in Patna, to meet the nomination deadline.
The Election Commission has set a tight schedule: nominations from October 10 to 17, with voting in two phases on November 6 (121 seats) and November 11 (the remaining 122 seats) across Bihar’s 243 constituencies. While the Mahagathbandhan faces internal delays, the NDA’s unity is in jeopardy, testing alliances ahead of the intense battle.
This impasse underscores the high stakes in Bihar’s fractured political landscape, where every seat could tip the scales of power.