In Bihar poll share, JMM asks RJD to ‘return the favour’, claims 12 seats
The Bihar Assembly elections are shaping up to be a fierce political contest. Alliances and seat-sharing deals are central to the strategies of major parties. Recently, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) made a bold move. It asked the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) to “return the favour” by allotting 12 seats to JMM in Bihar.
Expanding Mahagathbandhan Alliance
The Mahagathbandhan, led mainly by RJD under Tejashwi Yadav, is working hard to unite anti-BJP voters. The alliance involves several regional and national parties. Seat-sharing talks have become crucial as many parties want to maximize their influence.
The JMM is an important player in Jharkhand politics. In the 2024 Jharkhand elections, JMM supported RJD by giving six seats and a ministerial berth. This cooperation helped the Mahagathbandhan win there. The gesture laid the groundwork for mutual support.
JMM Demands 12 Seats: A Call for Reciprocity
Now, JMM wants RJD to reciprocate that support in Bihar. It has formally asked for 12 seats in the upcoming Bihar polls. JMM claims its influence in Bihar, especially in districts bordering Jharkhand, justifies this demand.
The party submitted a list of constituencies it wishes to contest. It also signaled readiness to run independently if ignored. This stance shows JMM’s growing assertiveness. It also adds complexity to seat-sharing talks within Mahagathbandhan.
Why JMM Matters in Bihar
At first glance, JMM might seem like an outsider in Bihar. But several factors explain its rising importance:
- Geographical Proximity and Demographics: Some Bihar districts share borders with Jharkhand and have tribal populations similar to JMM’s core base.
- Expanding Political Reach: JMM aims to extend its presence beyond Jharkhand. Bihar is a logical next step.
- Alliance Strength: Including JMM can bring more votes and strengthen the coalition, especially among tribal communities.
- Congress Support: Congress leaders, part of the alliance, back JMM’s inclusion. For instance, Congress MLA Irfan Ansari supports giving seats to JMM.
Challenges for the Mahagathbandhan
JMM’s demand complicates seat-sharing talks. The Mahagathbandhan also includes Congress, Communist parties, and others. Each has its own seat claims. Balancing these demands is a tough task for RJD.
Tejashwi Yadav has said all partners will be invited for talks. He stressed fairness but also the need to manage competing claims carefully.
If JMM is not accommodated, it might contest alone. This could split votes and hurt the alliance. On the other hand, giving 12 seats to JMM means others lose out, which may cause discontent.
JMM’s Confidence and Strategy
JMM is confident in its strength. It wants to contest the seats it claims. By demanding 12 seats, it shows it’s a serious player, not just a minor partner.
JMM’s success in Jharkhand is based on tribal welfare and regional identity politics. The party believes these issues will connect with voters in Bihar’s bordering tribal areas. Being part of Mahagathbandhan in Bihar could boost its influence further.
Opposition and Strategic Stakes
Meanwhile, BJP and its allies are preparing for a tough battle. BJP has steadily increased its base in Bihar. It focuses on development, caste equations, and leadership appeal.
For Mahagathbandhan, unity is essential to counter BJP. Any seat-sharing disputes could weaken the alliance and confuse voters.
JMM’s presence in Bihar challenges BJP, especially in tribal districts. The alliance with JMM could attract tribal voters who feel neglected by other parties.
The Path Ahead: Negotiations and Impact
As the election nears, seat-sharing talks will intensify. RJD, Congress, JMM, and others will hold multiple discussions to finalize seats.
JMM’s 12-seat demand is ambitious but grounded in political reality. The alliance’s ability to accommodate JMM without upsetting others will shape the election outcome.
A united front with JMM could strengthen the coalition. A fallout could cause vote splits, benefiting BJP.
Conclusion
The Bihar Assembly elections highlight how alliances and seat-sharing shape political fortunes. JMM’s request for 12 seats from RJD shows the importance of reciprocity in coalition politics.
This demand reminds us that past electoral support often translates into future bargaining power. How the Mahagathbandhan manages this will be crucial for its success.
In the end, keeping the alliance united while respecting regional interests will be key to winning Bihar.
