This arrangement marks equal status for BJP and JDU within the NDA in Bihar. While Chirag Paswan’s demands were accommodated, Jitan Ram Manjhi, who had requested 40 seats, received only six.
Reactions from Key Leaders
Manjhi: Potential Impact on NDA
Initially, Jitan Ram Manjhi expressed satisfaction but later voiced concerns:
"The high command’s decision is acceptable, but giving us only six seats underestimates our importance. This could affect the NDA."
Kushwaha: Patience Needed
Upendra Kushwaha addressed party supporters on X, acknowledging disappointment:
"I apologize that the number of seats could not match expectations. Many supporters may feel hurt, and perhaps meals weren’t cooked in frustration today. But every decision has its reasons, some visible, some not. Time will tell whether this was right or wrong."
Seat-Sharing Based on 2024 Lok Sabha Results
The NDA calculated its assembly seat distribution using the 2024 Lok Sabha performance as a guide.
- BJP contested 17 Lok Sabha seats, covering 104 assembly segments.
- JDU contested 16 Lok Sabha seats, covering 97 assembly segments.
Under the new formula, BJP has three fewer assembly seats than its Lok Sabha base, while JDU gained four more, creating parity. For the first time in Bihar, there is no “big brother” or junior partner within the NDA.
Historical Context
- JDU: From a peak of 141 seats in 2010, it will contest 101 seats in 2025, a 29% reduction over 15 years.
- BJP: Will contest 101 seats, consistent with its 2005 allocation.
- Both parties are fielding the lowest number of seats in alliance history.
Implications of the Arrangement
- BJP Equal to JDU: Senior journalist Arun Kumar Pandey notes, “For the first time, BJP stands at par with JDU in Bihar.”
- Chirag Paswan Emerges Strongest Bargainer: The LJP secured 29 seats, making him the NDA’s key Dalit face, representing a crucial 6% vote share in a 19% Dalit population.
- Manjhi’s Influence Limited: Journalist Sanjay Singh observes, “Manjhi’s base is mostly Gaya, and his candidates are mostly family members, yet the NDA retained him to ensure Dalit representation and alliance stability.”
- Kushwaha’s Continued Relevance: With only 4.2% voter share in Magadh and Shahabad, RLM remains small but strategically important, ensuring NDA unity despite weak electoral performance.
This seat-sharing formula reflects NDA’s efforts to balance historical strengths, manage alliance dynamics, and maintain a unified front for the Bihar Assembly elections.
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