Congress Set to Back Tejashwi Yadav as Bihar CM Face to Save Alliance
In a major shift in strategy, the Congress party appears ready to accept Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav as the chief ministerial candidate for Bihar’s Maha Gathbandhan in the 2025 Assembly elections. This move aims to stabilize the opposition alliance, which has faced turbulence since Nitish Kumar’s return to the BJP-led NDA.
Why Congress is Making the Strategic Shift
The Congress leadership recognizes the RJD’s dominance in Bihar’s opposition space—proven in the 2020 polls, where Tejashwi’s aggressive campaign nearly toppled the NDA. With Congress’s shrinking state influence and no strong local leader, conceding the CM face to Tejashwi is a pragmatic step to retain relevance.
2024 Lok Sabha Elections: The Immediate Priority
Beyond Bihar’s state elections, the opposition’s unity is critical for the 2024 general elections. A clear leadership structure could prevent infighting and present a cohesive front against the BJP. By endorsing Tejashwi, Congress hopes to secure smoother seat-sharing talks and strengthen the alliance’s electoral prospects.
Challenges Ahead: Seat-Sharing & Alliance Dynamics
While accepting Tejashwi’s leadership may ease tensions, tough negotiations lie ahead—especially over Lok Sabha seat distribution. The RJD, now in a stronger position, may demand a larger share, while balancing demands from Left allies like CPI(ML) Liberation will test the alliance’s cohesion.
Tejashwi’s Leadership Test
For Tejashwi Yadav, this is a defining moment. His ability to unify the alliance, ensure fair seat allocation, and lead a coordinated campaign will determine whether the Maha Gathbandhan can mount a serious challenge to the NDA.
Conclusion: A Calculated Gamble
Congress’s concession reflects a strategic retreat to regain political footing. Whether this move revives the opposition’s fortunes or leads to further discord will unfold in the coming months, making Bihar’s political chessboard one to watch.
