Bihar Polls: Tejashwi Yadav to Lead Opposition, Sahani as Deputy CM
In a major political move ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections 2024, the Opposition Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) has named RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as its chief ministerial candidate. The coalition also announced Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani as its deputy CM pick, setting up a direct contest against the ruling NDA (Nitish Kumar-BJP alliance).
Tejashwi Yadav: Youth vs Experience in Bihar Politics
At 31, Tejashwi Yadav—youngest son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav—has become the Opposition’s face, positioning himself as a youthful alternative to the veteran Nitish Kumar.
- Key Promises: 10 lakh jobs, agrarian reforms, and anti-NDA governance critique.
- Challenges: RJD’s corruption taint, BJP’s attacks on family legal cases.
- Grassroots Appeal: Strong social media presence and Yadav-Muslim-Dalit consolidation.
Why Mukesh Sahani? Caste Calculus & BJP’s Loss
The choice of Mukesh Sahani (ex-BJP ally) as deputy CM is a strategic move to secure Nishad-Mallah votes, a crucial EBC (Extremely Backward Class) bloc.
- VIP’s Influence: Holds sway in Seemanchal & Mithila (15+ seats).
- BJP’s Erosion: Sahani’s exit weakens NDA’s backward caste outreach.
NDA’s Game Plan: Nitish’s Legacy vs Modi’s Charisma
The NDA (BJP-JD(U)-HAM) is banking on:
– Nitish Kumar’s development record (roads, electricity, prohibition).
– BJP’s Hindutva + Welfare Push (PM-Kisan, Ayushman Bharat).
– Attack Points: Tejashwi’s inexperience, RJD’s corruption history.
Battleground Seats & Caste Dynamics
- Key Regions: Mithila, Seemanchal, Kosi (Mahagathbandhan’s focus).
- NDA Strongholds: Central & South Bihar (Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur).
- Swing Factors: Non-Yadav OBCs, Upper Castes, Turnout of young voters.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Election
The 2024 Bihar polls will decide:
✔️ Tejashwi’s rise as a credible CM contender.
✔️ Nitish Kumar’s survival amid anti-incumbency.
✔️ Caste vs Development as the defining narrative.
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