The Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar has once again accelerated its preparations for the upcoming assembly elections. Tejashwi Yadav, the former Deputy Chief Minister of the state and leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), has been declared the Chief Ministerial face of the alliance. This decision was confirmed by Mukesh Sahni, president of the VIP party, after the alliance's fourth strategic meeting.
Renewed Confidence in Tejashwi
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mukesh Sahni clearly stated that Tejashwi Yadav will be the Mahagathbandhan's Chief Ministerial candidate. All parties have agreed on this. The meeting was attended by senior leaders from approximately nine parties, including the RJD, Congress, CPI(ML), CPI, CPM, and VIP.
The meeting aimed not only to finalize seat-sharing but also to outline a joint movement addressing Bihar's law and order situation and social issues.
Details on Seat Sharing Requested
The meeting sought details from all parties regarding their past performance and bholds to formulate a seat-sharing formula for the upcoming elections. Sources suggest the alliance will prioritize "seat allocation based on ground reality" this time, ensuring fair representation and preventing any undue advantage or disadvantage to any party.
Strategy on Bihar's Deteriorating Law and Order
The Mahagathbandhan has decided to make the state's deteriorating law and order situation, rising crimes against women, atrocities against Dalits, and youth unemployment key election issues. Mukesh Sahni stated that incidents of kidnapping, murder, and robbery have become commonplace in the state, leaving the public living in fear. The Mahagathbandhan will now launch a statewide movement addressing these issues. A plan for demonstrations and padyatras (foot marches) in all districts by the end of June was agreed upon.
Tejashwi's Growing Acceptance
In the absence of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav has been the face of the alliance for several years. He delivered an impressive performance for the opposition in the 2020 elections. Entrusting him with the leadership again indicates the opposition considers him a stable, experienced, and widely acceptable figure.
No party objected to Tejashwi's nomination during the meeting, and all parties conveyed a message of unity. A senior Congress leader stated that Bihar needs change, and the Mahagathbandhan must come together completely to achieve it.
