Counting of votes for the Bihar Assembly elections 2025 is underway, with all attention on whether the National Democratic Alliance can secure a clear majority. The election has become significant not only for government formation but also for determining the internal power balance within the NDA. The BJP and Janata Dal (United) contested an equal number of seats, putting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's political standing under scrutiny. The Mahagathbandhan, led by Tejashwi Yadav, is hoping to expand its support base beyond traditional backers. Several smaller parties and new entrants like Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj could influence outcomes in tight contests. Vote margins are expected to be narrow in many constituencies, making caste equations and community mobilisation critical. The results will shape Bihar's political direction for the coming years.
Key Factors Behind Alliance Strategies
The NDA's campaign relies on three main pillars. Nitish Kumar's political experience and governance record form the first strength, though this election also tests his influence within the alliance. Second is the women's vote, mobilised through the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana via Jeevika self-help groups. Third is caste arithmetic, strengthened by including Chirag Paswan's LJP (Ram Vilas) and Upendra Kushwaha's RLM, broadening the alliance's social base. Meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan aims to go beyond its Muslim-Yadav core by partnering with parties like VIP and IIP to reach EBC and riverine communities. Tejashwi Yadav's youth appeal contrasts with Nitish's long incumbency. Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj, though unlikely to win many seats, could split votes and affect traditional caste alignments across constituencies.
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