RJD Outshines Congress in 2020 Bihar Polls, Mahagathbandhan Faces Tensions
As the 2025 Bihar elections approach, Congress is determined to contest more assertively, seeking a larger share of seats and a stronger campaign to overcome its past shortcomings and bolster the alliance’s prospects against the NDA.
In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) outperformed its Mahagathbandhan ally, the Indian National Congress, securing 75 of 144 contested seats with a 52% success rate, while Congress won only 19 of 70 seats, achieving a mere 27% strike rate. As the 2025 Bihar elections approach, Congress is determined to contest more robustly, aiming to secure a larger share of seats and strengthen the Mahagathbandhan’s challenge against the ruling NDA.
A Tale of Two Allies
The 2020 elections highlighted RJD’s dominance within the Mahagathbandhan, as it clinched 75 seats, emerging as the single largest party despite the alliance’s failure to form the government. Congress, however, struggled, winning only 19 seats despite contesting 70, a performance that drew scrutiny from allies and analysts. The low strike rate—27% compared to RJD’s 52%—sparked debates about Congress’s campaign strategy and candidate selection, with many blaming its reliance on urban and less winnable seats for the shortfall.
Mahagathbandhan Tensions
RJD leaders, while publicly supportive, privately expressed frustration over Congress’s inability to convert seats into victories, which weakened the alliance’s overall tally against the NDA’s 125 seats. The fallout prompted introspection within Congress, with state leaders acknowledging the need for a stronger grassroots presence and better coordination with allies to counter the BJP-JD(U) coalition.
Congress’s 2025 Strategy
Learning from 2020, Congress is gearing up for a more assertive role in 2025. The party is pushing for a larger seat-sharing allocation, focusing on constituencies where it has historical strength. Leaders are emphasizing improved candidate selection, rigorous campaigning, and leveraging anti-incumbency sentiments against the NDA. Congress also aims to align closely with RJD’s voter base to present a united front.
A Pivotal Election Ahead
As Bihar prepares for the 2025 polls, Congress’s renewed vigor could reshape the Mahagathbandhan’s prospects. With RJD’s proven track record and Congress’s resolve to rebound, the alliance hopes to challenge the NDA’s dominance, making this election a critical test of unity and strategy.
