Patna: As the Bihar Assembly elections draw near, the Mahagathbandhan alliance remains locked in seat-sharing talks, but RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav wasted no time upon landing from Delhi, handing party symbols to 14 loyalists in a move that’s stirred whispers of pressure tactics on allies.
In a late-evening ceremony at his residence, the former Chief Minister personally allotted RJD’s lantern emblem to key figures, including Maner MLA Bhai Virendra, Parbatta’s Dr Sanjeev Kumar, Hathua’s Rajesh Kumar, Matihani’s Bogo Singh, Masaudhi’s Rekha Paswan, and Sandesh’s Deepu Singh. The list extends to Meena Pur’s Munna Yadav, Brahmpur’s Shambhu Yadav, Nokha’s Anita Devi, Samastipur’s Abdul Islam Shahin, Sahhebpur Kamal’s Lalan Yadav, Darbhanga’s Lalit Yadav, Madhepura’s Chandrashekhar, and Hilsa’s Shakti Yadav.
This pre-emptive distribution — before any formal alliance pact — has sparked speculation: Is it a subtle nudge to Congress and Left partners, or a bold flex to lock in strongholds? RJD insiders dismiss rift rumours, but the timing, just hours after Lalu’s return, amplifies the buzz. Meanwhile, son Tejashwi Yadav, fresh from Delhi, exuded calm: “Talks are done; expect the official announcement in a day or two. After November 14, Bihar continues to progress, ensuring that everyone receives their due. He sidestepped NDA’s internal tugs, focusing on jobs and development.
Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha’s cryptic X post quoting Rahim —”The thread of love, don’t snap it carelessly; once broken, it joins with a knot”— has added intrigue and fuelled interpretations of the alliance’s cohesion. No in-person huddle with Rahul Gandhi or Mallikarjun Kharge materialised in Delhi; phone chats were “positive”, sources say. With NDA’s formula out (BJP-JD(U) at 101 each), Mahagathbandhan eyes a midweek reveal. For Bihar’s 7.42 crore voters, the wait tests loyalties — and ambitions.