Patna: With the seat allocation finalized for the Lok Sabha elections in Bihar by both major alliances, the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, the dissatisfaction among sidelined candidates is becoming evident. While the NDA has announced candidates for all 40 seats, the Mahagathbandhan is in the process of allocating symbols to its candidates. The discontent among these sidelined candidates could potentially disrupt the electoral dynamics for both major alliances.
More than half a dozen seats are under close scrutiny, including Siwan, Nawada, Aurangabad, Munger, Purnia, among others. In Nawada, tensions rise as Rajendra Yadav and Bhojpuri singer Gunjan Singh, both denied tickets by RJD, may influence the outcome of the election for the NDA and Mahagathbandhan candidates, respectively.
Similarly, in Siwan, while the NDA has nominated Vijaylakshmi Kushwaha, the Mahagathbandhan is considering former Legislative Assembly Speaker Avadh Bihari Chaudhary. However, Hina Shahab, the wife of former MP Shahabuddin, has added an intriguing dimension to the electoral battle with AIMIM’s support.
Congress leader Bagi Tevar is causing ripples in Aurangabad and Purnia constituencies despite RJD’s presence, while Lalit Narayan Singh, alias Nalin Ranjan Sharma, is displaying a rebellious attitude in Munger under BJP’s banner.
Analysts predict a direct contest between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan across all 40 constituencies in Bihar. However, four factors could influence the outcome:
1. The Paras Paras Factor: Former central minister Paras, disgruntled with the NDA’s ticket distribution, has resigned from his ministerial position and announced campaigning for the NDA.
2. The Pappu Yadav Factor: Disputes over Pappu Yadav’s candidacy may impact several seats in Seemanchal, including Purnia, Madhepura, and Supaul.
3. The Owaisi Factor: AIMIM’s decision to field candidates in 15 Lok Sabha constituencies could sway voting patterns on Muslim-majority seats.
4. The Mukesh Sahni Factor: Despite being left out of the Mahagathbandhan’s seat-sharing arrangement, Mukesh Sahni’s candidacy remains uncertain, raising questions about his potential impact on the election results.
As parties await the next steps of disgruntled leaders and MPs denied tickets, the electoral landscape in Bihar remains dynamic.
