The Bihar assembly elections are witnessing intense political maneuvering, with various parties engaging in strategic moves to gain an edge. A central figure in this scenario is Bhojpuri actor-singer Pawan Singh, whose recent activities have sparked significant interest. Singh’s meeting with RLSP president Upendra Kushwaha in Delhi is a pivotal event, potentially signaling his re-entry into the BJP fold. This meeting follows Singh’s independent candidacy in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Karakat seat, where both he and Kushwaha faced setbacks. Kushwaha had previously opposed Singh’s return, but this meeting suggests a shift in dynamics.
Singh also met with key BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President J.P. Nadda. The meeting with Shah lasted for approximately 30 minutes. These interactions highlight Singh’s growing influence and importance in the current political climate.
The surge in demand for Singh is attributed to his substantial popularity among young voters. His ability to secure a considerable vote share as an independent candidate in the last Lok Sabha elections underscores this appeal. Singh’s presence also played a role in the defeat of the NDA candidate, Upendra Kushwaha, in the previous Lok Sabha elections, resulting in tensions within the alliance. Consequently, efforts are underway to mend relations before the assembly elections.
In the upcoming elections, Singh’s return to the NDA could provide significant benefits, especially in the Magadh and Shahabad regions of Bihar. These areas are crucial, with the BJP having won 11 out of 25 seats in the 2020 assembly elections. The BJP anticipates that Singh’s popularity could boost their vote share by 3 to 4 percent. Furthermore, Singh’s Rajput background could help in consolidating the Rajput vote bank, which is a significant factor.
There are also discussions about Singh contesting the assembly elections from Ara. If he chooses to run from Ara, it could bring substantial advantages to the BJP and NDA. Singh’s influence extends to approximately two dozen seats in the surrounding areas, including Bhojpur, Buxar, Rohtas, and Kaimur. His stature as a Bhojpuri superstar enables him to sway the youth, a critical demographic.
Singh’s re-entry is reshaping Bihar’s political landscape, although the opposition perceives it as a strategic move against Upendra Kushwaha.
The Election Commission has released the final voter list for Bihar, which reveals an increase in the number of voters, now totaling 72.4 million. The updated list includes 2.1 million new voters, showing an evolving electoral demographic. The voter list is available on the Election Commission’s website, allowing citizens to check their names and register before the nomination deadline.