Bihar is poised for a significant electoral showdown in November 2025, with the emergence of approximately 22 political families deeply entrenched in local power structures. These dynasties, comprising sitting legislators, former representatives, and their kin, are actively contesting across numerous constituencies. Party affiliations are diverse, with RJD fielding nine such families, JD(U) seven, BJP four, and LJP(R) two.
Mokama is a focal point, witnessing the return of Anant Singh, a powerful figure whose legislative career was interrupted by a conviction. Having been cleared by the High Court, he is now a JD(U) candidate, aiming to reclaim his long-held seat. His wife had previously succeeded him in a by-election. The constituency, with its mix of upper-caste, Kurmi, Yadav, and Dalit voters, has seen Singh win multiple times under different party umbrellas. His main rival is Veena Devi, wife of Surajbhan Singh, running for RJD, creating a direct confrontation between two prominent local families.
In Aurangabad, the Anand Mohan family’s political influence persists. After his release, Anand Mohan ensured his wife Lovely Anand’s election to the Lok Sabha. His elder son, Chetan Anand, now a JD(U) member after leaving RJD, is competing in Nabinagar.
Ekma in Saran sees the return of Dhuman Singh to the electoral fray for JD(U). His wife had contested previously. Dhuman Singh, known for his proximity to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has a proven track record in the constituency.
The Pandey family continues its political trajectory in Tarari, Bhojpur. Sunil Pandey’s son, Vishal Prashant, recently won a by-election. Sunil’s brother, Hulas Pandey, is contesting for LJP(R).
A high-stakes contest is brewing in Warisaliganj, Nawada, between the families of Akhilesh Sardar and Ashok Mahato. Aruna Devi, BJP’s two-time MLA, faces Anita Devi, wife of Ashok Mahato, who is running on an RJD ticket shortly after his release from jail.
Six-time JD(U) MLA Amarendra ‘Pappu’ Pandey aims to retain his grip on Kuchaikot in Gopalganj. Raghunathpur sees the debut of Osama Shahab, son of late MP Shihabuddin, representing RJD and carrying forward his family’s legacy.
Bhojpur’s Sandesh constituency is dominated by a rivalry between former sand mafias. RJD has nominated Deepu Ranawat, son of ex-MLA Arun Yadav, against JD(U)’s Radha Charan Sah. This seat has been with RJD for a decade.
Lalganj features Shivani Shukla, daughter of jailed leader Munna Shukla, contesting for RJD. Danapur’s RJD ticket goes to Riet Lal Yadav, currently imprisoned. In Nawada, Vibha Devi, wife of the acquitted Rajballabh Yadav, has switched from RJD to JD(U).
Gopalganj and Saran are also seeing the next generation of politicians emerge from families of slain leaders, like Ashok Singh. These powerful families underscore the enduring influence of dynastic politics and local strongmen in shaping Bihar’s elections.