AIMIM Seeks Mahagathbandhan Alliance, Writes to Lalu for Bihar Polls

Bihar’s political arena is abuzz with speculation as the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), led by Asaduddin Owaisi, has expressed its eagerness to join the Mahagathbandhan ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections. AIMIM’s Bihar president, Akhtarul Iman, penned a letter to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, signaling a potential alliance to consolidate secular votes and challenge the BJP-led NDA’s dominance in the state.

AIMIM’s Strategic Outreach

The letter, also addressed to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, underscores AIMIM’s intent to prevent the fragmentation of anti-NDA votes. Akhtarul Iman emphasized that aligning with the Mahagathbandhan—comprising RJD, Congress, and Left parties—would strengthen the opposition’s fight against the ruling coalition. AIMIM’s move comes after its growing influence in Bihar, particularly in Muslim-majority constituencies like Kishanganj, where it won five seats in the 2020 elections, disrupting traditional vote banks.

Aiming for Secular Unity

AIMIM’s outreach is driven by the need to unify secular forces in Bihar, where caste and communal dynamics heavily influence elections. The party believes its inclusion in the Mahagathbandhan could counter the NDA’s narrative and appeal to marginalized communities, including Muslims and Dalits. However, the proposal has sparked debate within the Grand Alliance, with some leaders wary of AIMIM’s polarizing image, while others see it as a strategic boost to challenge the BJP’s electoral machinery.

Implications for Bihar’s 2025 Polls

The potential alliance could reshape Bihar’s electoral landscape, especially in constituencies with significant Muslim populations. While the RJD has yet to formally respond, sources suggest Lalu and Tejashwi are open to discussions, provided seat-sharing terms align. As Bihar braces for a high-stakes election, AIMIM’s bid to join the Mahagathbandhan signals a dynamic shift, potentially altering vote equations and intensifying the battle against the NDA. The coming weeks will reveal whether this bold move translates into a formidable opposition front