Key Highlights
- The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress may face internal churn post-elections if exit polls hold true.
- RJD has been out of power in Bihar for around two decades, except a few patchy years due to political disagreements.
- The 2025 assembly election is seen as a decisive point for RJD leaders who have been waiting to form government.
- If exit polls are accurate, the NDA will come back with a majority, creating potential leadership shifts within the RJD.
Background on Bihar Elections 2025
The upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, scheduled for November 2025, have significant implications for political parties vying for power. The election is closely watched as it could determine the fate of key opposition parties like the RJD and Congress.
Historical Context
The RJD has been a prominent force in Bihar politics but has faced challenges during its long years out of power. The party was last in government for around two decades, except for brief periods when Nitish Kumar deserted his NDA partner BJP to form the Mahagathbandhan coalition.
RJD’s Current Challenges
With the 2025 assembly election looming, RJD leaders are cautiously optimistic. However, the party faces internal pressures and external challenges. Financial issues have hampered its ability to maintain a strong campaign presence against the BJP-JDU combine’s extensive resources.
Economic Backward Classes
The RJD believes that recent economic factors might play a crucial role in the election results. Mukesh Yadav, from Vaishali district, expressed confidence in the party’s chances, stating, “We have voted for the RJD in all the assembly elections. If it has not been able to come into power, it is the party’s problem.”
Exit Polls and Potential Changes
The exit polls indicate a possible return of the NDA with a majority. This scenario could lead to internal turmoil within the RJD as some leaders might seek new opportunities. Tejashwi Yadav, who currently holds the position of deputy chief minister in the Mahagathbandhan coalition, faces potential challenges.
Congress’ Prospects
The Congress party may also face significant risks if it loses the elections. There has been a notable influx of inexperienced youngsters joining its ranks, which could create dynamics within the party structure. Senior leaders are wary about rapid transitions from old to younger leaders, fearing disruption.
Analysis and Future Implications
A political analyst noted that young leaders might become restless as they seek elevated positions. This could impact the RJD’s ability to maintain its current cadres and potentially lead to a decline in its influence if it does not secure power.
“Young leaders are restless and more ambitious, when they get positions early, they want to jump to more elevated places which in opposition disturbs the rhythm of the party. Therefore, probability wise, there are higher chances of losing ground than progressing,” said a political analyst.
While RJD and Congress leaders remain optimistic about the potential vote shift towards them, the reality may differ based on the exit polls’ accuracy and voter behavior on election day.
Conclusion
The 2025 Bihar assembly elections are critical for both the RJD and Congress. The outcome could reshape the political landscape in Bihar, with potential leadership changes within these parties if the NDA returns to power as predicted by exit polls.
