The political atmosphere in Bihar is charged up as the state prepares for the upcoming assembly elections. The contest is primarily seen between the INDIA bloc, including the Congress and RJD, and the ruling NDA led by Nitish Kumar. Both coalitions are intensifying their campaigns. While Tejashwi Yadav has been critical of the Nitish Kumar government, Rahul Gandhi has made several visits to the state, targeting the BJP and appealing to various communities. Amidst this, other parties are also vying for a place in the electoral landscape.
The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, made a strong debut in the previous elections, winning five seats. However, four of its MLAs later joined the RJD.
AIMIM is again gearing up for the elections. Bihar AIMIM President Akhtarul Iman had proposed a joint electoral effort with the INDIA bloc against the NDA. In an interview, Iman stated that they had approached the Mahagathbandhan with a proposal for a united front against the NDA and the BJP, but have received no response. He emphasized that AIMIM is preparing comprehensively for the Bihar elections, and might contest independently, challenging both the NDA and Mahagathbandhan. They are also exploring the possibility of a third front, engaging in discussions with regional parties to provide an alternative for the voters.
This development comes after the Mahagathbandhan showed a lack of interest in a joint electoral approach proposed by the AIMIM.
Imam, also known as the ‘Junior Owaisi’ in the Seemanchal region, is a well-regarded leader in Bihar, particularly in that area. Iman stated that AIMIM has a strong base in Seemanchal, not just among Muslims, but also among Hindus, as they are working for the holistic development of the region. Prior to this, Asaduddin Owaisi had acknowledged Iman as the key figure to decide on the party’s election strategy in Bihar.
Iman added that the party is preparing to contest 100 seats. In the 2020 elections, AIMIM won five seats, all in the Seemanchal region. Political analysts suggest that the more seats AIMIM contests, the greater the potential harm to the RJD, as Muslims traditionally vote for the RJD. If the party contests independently or forms a third front, the INDIA bloc could face significant setbacks.