GG News Bureau
Patna, 30th Sept. As assembly elections are approaching in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand, political fervor is notably escalating in Bihar, despite a year remaining until its own elections. All parties are exhibiting an unusual level of activity, akin to what is typically observed during election season. This heightened engagement is occurring even as half of Bihar grapples with the devastating impact of floods.
While other parties may be reacting to the anticipated election atmosphere, the ruling Janata Dal (United) or JDU’s proactive stance indicates a strategic motive. JDU’s National General Secretary, Manish Verma, has commenced a series of worker gatherings starting September 27, aiming to connect with party workers in each district. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar likely chose Verma for this critical role due to his reputation as a level-headed leader. Recently appointed as National General Secretary, Verma, a former Indian Administrative Service officer, is increasingly viewed in political circles as a potential successor to Kumar.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is also actively engaging voters, having launched a membership campaign at the beginning of the month. Although this initiative is part of a nationwide effort, it gains particular relevance in Bihar, where rival parties are also striving to enhance public connections. However, the BJP’s membership drive has not met expectations, causing concern within the party’s central leadership. This urgency is underscored by BJP National President J.P. Nadda’s two visits to Bihar within three weeks.
Meanwhile, RJD leader and party’s chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav recently undertook a gratitude march, completing the first phase of a multi-phase journey. During this campaign, Yadav communicated with party workers, highlighting the Mahagathbandhan government’s achievements over the past 17 months while reiterating a commitment to reestablishing the coalition government. He also listened to feedback from the workers, which has informed his strategy moving forward. Following suggestions, he initiated a membership drive for RJD, indicating a potential reshuffle in ticket distribution during the elections.
National Loktantrik Party (NLP) President Upendra Kushwaha is also touring Bihar, engaging with his supporters and emphasizing the need for cohesion within the NDA alliance. Kushwaha expressed that the NDA did not secure expected seats in the Lok Sabha elections due to a lack of coordination, vowing a more unified effort this time.
However, questions regarding Kushwaha’s independent campaign have arisen within the NDA. JDU leader Bhagwan Singh Kushwaha suggested that he should have consulted with NDA partners before embarking on his tour. Other NDA leaders, including Jitan Ram Manjhi, the founder of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), have been leveraging government events to increase their visibility. Meanwhile, Chirag Paswan, president of LJP-R and a central minister, has been actively conducting rallies in Begusarai, Sheikhpura, and Vaishali.
Paswan’s uncle, Pashupati Kumar Paras, leader of the other faction of LJP and a former central minister, is also visiting the state, asserting that they are determined to make an impact in the assembly elections after feeling sidelined in the last Lok Sabha elections. All parties are keenly preparing for the upcoming elections, indicating a competitive political landscape in Bihar.
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