Bihar Political Landscape Shifts as MLA Defection Rumors Swirl
Bihar is buzzing with political speculation just two months after the NDA's sweeping victory in the Assembly elections. Sources indicate a potential reshuffling of loyalties that could reshape the state's legislative dynamics.
Congress MLAs in Talks with JD(U)
All six Congress MLAs in Bihar are reportedly in discussions with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U). Insiders suggest these legislators might soon cross over to the ruling party. This move would leave the Congress without any representation in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, dealing a blow to the RJD-led Opposition alliance.
The Congress MLAs involved are Manohar Prasad Singh from Manihari, Surendra Prasad from Valmiki Nagar, Abhishek Ranjan from Chanpatia, Abidur Rahman from Araria, Md Kamrul Hoda from Kishanganj, and Manoj Biswan from Forbesganj.
Signs of Discontent Within Congress
Congress insiders reveal growing dissatisfaction among its MLAs. All six have been absent from key party events recently. They skipped the traditional "Dahi Chura" feast at Sadaqat Ashram in Patna. Two MLAs, Surendra Prasad and Abhishek Ranjan, also missed a January 8 meeting on the "MGNREGA Bachao" campaign.
A senior JD(U) functionary claims the Congress MLAs have reached a "tipping point" due to unhappiness with their party's functioning in Bihar. He asserts their defection is imminent, which could allow JD(U) to outnumber the BJP in the Assembly.
Congress Leaders Deny Speculations
Congress leaders have dismissed these rumors as politically motivated. Shakeel Ahmad Khan, former Congress Legislature Party leader, states the MLAs missed events due to constituency work and denies any plans to leave. AICC secretary Shahnawaz Alam calls the speculations "absolutely false," accusing the NDA of trying to divert attention from the Congress's MGNREGA revival campaign.
BJP Targets RLM MLAs
Simultaneously, the BJP is said to be courting three MLAs from Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), an NDA ally. The MLAs—Rameshwar Mahato, Madhav Anand, and Alok Kumar Singh—are allegedly in touch with BJP leaders. This highlights internal tensions within the ruling coalition, with a quiet tussle for supremacy between BJP and JD(U).
Discontent in RLM stems from Kushwaha's decision to nominate his son Deepak to the Nitish Kumar Cabinet, despite him not being a legislature member. The three MLAs skipped a "litti feast" hosted by Kushwaha, opting instead to meet BJP's Nitin Nabin.
RLM MLAs Downplay Split Rumors
RLM MLA Madhav Anand denies the party is splitting, acknowledging issues but emphasizing internal resolution. Alok Kumar Singh also dismisses speculation, citing prior engagements for missing the feast and expressing faith in party unity.
Potential Return of R C P Singh to JD(U)
There is also talk of former Union minister R C P Singh rejoining JD(U). Once a Nitish confidant expelled in 2022, Singh recently attended a Kurmi Sammelan where Nitish was present, fueling rumors of a comeback. JD(U) sources do not rule out his return.
Bihar Politics Enters Volatile Phase
These developments underscore Bihar's political volatility post-elections. Despite the NDA's decisive mandate with 202 seats—BJP 89 and JD(U) 85—realignments are possible. The Mahagathbandhan holds 35 seats, with RJD at 25. The fluid dynamics suggest ongoing maneuvering that could alter the state's political landscape in coming weeks.
