In a recent TV-9 Digital meeting, former Congress President Akhilesh Singh discussed the essential relationship between the Congress and RJD in Bihar politics. Singh affirmed that both parties depend on each other for survival. The discussion was prompted by a question concerning the decline of the Congress party after the JP movement and its perceived reliance on the RJD.
Singh elaborated on the shared dependence, referencing the 2010 elections where the parties contested separately, resulting in a substantial decrease in seats for both. He stressed the importance of their partnership to counteract the BJP’s coalition, considering Bihar’s social landscape. Singh also mentioned that the Congress has not held power since the 1990s, with only brief involvement in coalition governments. He highlighted his own leadership role in the Bihar Congress and the improved performance during his tenure, particularly during the Lok Sabha elections. He cited an increase in votes compared to the 2019 elections as evidence of progress.
Furthermore, Singh pointed out the higher strike rate of the Congress compared to the RJD in Bihar. When questioned about Pappu Yadav’s involvement, Singh stated that alliances require compromises, using the Purnia seat as an example. He mentioned the RJD’s concerns and the prior announcement by Lalu Prasad Yadav that led to the Congress not contesting the seat. He also mentioned that the Congress contested the Maharajganj seat.