The upcoming Bihar Assembly elections are expected to be announced soon, possibly in late September or early October. Following the announcement, the NDA will finalize its seat-sharing arrangement. The formula for seat distribution is ready, and the constituent parties have largely agreed. A meeting of key leaders is planned to finalize the details.
The seat allocation will largely mirror the previous election’s structure, though adjustments are needed for Chirag Paswan. Sources indicate he is requesting over forty seats. BJP insiders suggest this demand is driven by political imperatives, aiming to keep his supporters motivated. It’s understood that Chirag is crucial to the alliance, and his concerns will be considered during seat distribution. However, the JDU is hesitant to offer him more than twenty seats.
Historically, Nitish Kumar’s relationship with both Ram Vilas Paswan and Chirag Paswan has been characterized by a mix of cordiality and tension. As a result, Chirag might face disadvantages in seat distribution. Meanwhile, the BJP and JDU have agreed to contest over 100 seats each, with the JDU potentially contesting slightly more to assert its position as the dominant party in Bihar. Additionally, seats will be allocated to Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha.
The elections are likely to be conducted in two to three phases under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, who will also decide the strategy after the election. Concerns surround Nitish Kumar’s health, but he will make his own decisions. The Bihar Assembly’s term ends on November 22, 2025, making it essential for the election process to conclude before that date.
Diwali is scheduled for October 20, and Chhath Puja will be celebrated from October 25-28. In 2020, the elections were held in three phases, whereas in 2015, they took place in five phases. In 2020, the first phase of voting occurred on October 28, covering 71 assembly seats. The second phase took place on November 3, involving 94 assembly seats. The third and final phase was held on November 7, with voting on 78 assembly seats. The votes were counted on November 10, 2020.