Five civil courts get hoax bomb threats
A sense of dread descended upon five civil courts in Bihar, including those in Bhagalpur and Muzaffarpur, following alarming bomb threat emails predicting explosions at noon. The facilities were promptly evacuated, and a thorough search by security personnel ensued.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed citizens in Muzaffarpur on Republic Day. He emphasized fulfilling constitutional duties to make India a leading global republic. Bhagwat highlighted the Constitution's role in teaching dharma and the importance of civic duty. He also spoke about preserving humanity and social harmony through unwritten cultural norms.
RSS chief begins 4-day state visit
Mohan Bhagwat, the head of RSS, has embarked on a significant four-day journey to Bihar to commemorate the organization's centenary. During a well-attended seminar in Muzaffarpur, he engaged with over 300 participants and dedicated volunteers from 18 different districts.
Youth held for raping minor girl in Muzaffarpur
Medicine shop owners body found hanging at home in Muzaffarpur
On Saturday, tragedy struck in Muzaffarpur as Jitendra Kumar Pandey, a local pharmacy owner, was found dead in his home, hanging from a beam. The locked room raised alarms, leading police to force entry. Investigators are treating the situation as a suspected suicide, delving into possible contributing factors such as personal distress or financial troubles.
CM launches projects worth Rs853 cr in Muzaffarpur
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched 172 schemes worth Rs853 crore for Muzaffarpur, prioritizing accessible healthcare under 'Saat Nischay-3'. He emphasized public-private partnerships for medical colleges and incentives for rural doctors. The government also plans an economic package for investors and aims to create one crore jobs in five years, fostering advanced infrastructure and sectors.
Bihar Woman, Her 3 Kids Found Dead 5 Days After They Went Missing
Police on Thursday recovered the bodies of a woman and her three children, five days after they went missing in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, officials said.
January 15, 1934: When 12,000 Biharis Died, Borders Shifted And Rivers Changed Course
In India, places such as Munger, Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga were wiped out, while in Nepal, large parts of the Kathmandu Valley, including Bhaktapur and Birgunj, lay in ruins
The Bihar School Examination Board has announced the online enrolment and fee submission process for the D.P.Ed. training session 202527. The schedule applies to two ERC NCTE recognised colleges in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga. Institutes must submit student details and fees online within the notified window. Only validly enrolled students will be eligible for the upcoming D.P.Ed. examination, as per Board rules. Principals will receive guidelines, and students should contact colleges to confirm enrolment status timely.
Man arrested in Bihar for circulating AI-generated fake videos of PM, Prez
A man was arrested in Bihars Muzaffarpur district on Friday for allegedly creating and circulating AI-generated fake videos and audio clips of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, police said. The accused has been identified as Pramod Kumar Raj, a resident of Bhagwanpur in the Bochaha police station area, they said. Raj allegedly Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Man arrested in Bihar's Muzaffarpur for circulating AI-generated fake videos of PM, President
The accused has been identified as Pramod Kumar Raj, a resident of Bhagwanpur in the Bochaha police station area
Miffed by public 'humiliation', Bihar revenue officers complain to Nitish about deputy CM Sinha
PATNA: Accusing deputy chief minister Vijay Kumar Sinha of humiliating its members, the Bihar Revenue Service Association (BiRSA) has written to chief minister Nitish Kumar, threatening to boycott public grievance redressal sessions if corrective measures are not taken immediately. Sinha, who is also holding the portfolio of revenue and land reforms department, earned revenue officers wrath after he issued a stern warning to them against collusion with land mafia in the state. He said that erring officials would be identified and brought to book. He has also started holding Bhumi Sudhar Jankalyan Samvad (public grievance redressal sessions) for addressing related matters in districts. BiRSA has lodged a formal complaint with the chief minister, accusing Sinha of humiliating revenue officials during these sessions. The association alleged that Sinha was using language that undermined constitutional norms and administrative decorum. BiRSA threatened that if such humiliation was not stopped immediately, its officers would be forced to boycott such programmes in future. After assuming charge of the department, Sinha had held public dialogues in districts such as Patna, Muzaffarpur and Purnea, where he listened to people complaints in the presence of departmental officers. Officers objected to the deputy chief minister's remarks allegedly made during public hearings such as We will suspend you on the spot, Answer here in front of the public, and Immediate decisions will be taken. The deputy CM, who claimed he was not aware of such a letter, asserted that he would not succumb to any pressure and that action would be taken against those who were found indulging in wrongdoing. Regarding officers allegations of insulting and abusing members, the deputy chief minister said that in public interactions, no one was abused or insulted. He further stated that if anybody has any grievance, he or she should talk to him. I have so far not received any complaint from any individual or any group, he told this reporter over the phone on Saturday.
Mother Of 3 Dies By Suicide In Bihar, Husband Alleges 'Goonda Bank' Terror
A passbook, some pending instalments and a million questions: Pintu Goswami from Bihar's Muzaffarpur has lost his wife Gudiya Devi, 35, to suicide. The mother of three, he alleges, consumed pesticide after being harassed by recovery agents
Dense fog and severe cold wave hit normal life in Bihar, red alert issued for 12 districts
PATNA: Normal life in Bihar has been largely hit by dense fog and severe cold wave conditions, prompting authorities concerned to change the timing of schools for children. Severe cold wave condition is expected to persist till December 22. Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Chaudharys helicopter could not take off due to bad weather conditions and poor visibility. He was scheduled to attend official functions at Sugauli and Raxaul in East Champaran district. According to authoritative sources, a pair of flights of Air India from Patna to Delhi and vice versa was cancelled, while 16 pairs of flights got delayed due to bad weather conditions and poor visibility in Patna. Similarly, more than 12 trains were running behind schedule. Officials said that the trains, including Vibhuti Express, Shramjivi Express, Sampoorna Kranti Express, Barauni-Danapur Memu, Vaishali-Kodarma Fast Memu, Danapur-Jhajha Fast Passenger and Bhagalpur Garib Rath Express, were running from three hours to 30 hours behind schedule. According to notifications issued by the authorities, classes in schools will run from 9 am and 4.30 pm till December 27. The order will apply to all government and private schools across the State. However, pre-board and board examinations have been exempted from the new order. The school authorities have been asked to adhere to the order strictly, failing which action would be initiated against them as per the rule. Humidity levels have crossed 90 per cent, significantly narrowing the gap between maximum and minimum temperatures. A red alert has been issued for 12 districts of north Bihar, warning of extremely dense fog and severe cold wave conditions. In addition, a yellow alert has been issued for 24 other districts, including Patna, cautioning residents about cold weather conditions. The State witnessed a sharp drop in both day and night temperatures, throwing normal life out of gear. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold spell is expected to persist until December 22, with the possibility of a further decline in temperatures. The districts largely hit include West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Vaishali, Samastipur, Siwan and Gopalganj. In these districts, extremely dense fog is likely to disrupt road traffic both during the day and night hours. Travelling by road will be risky under such conditions, said a police officer assigned to regular traffic in Muzaffarpur in north Bihar. He said an advisory has been issued for vehicle drivers. A yellow alert has been issued for 24 districts, including Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur and Purnea. In Araria, two youths were killed in a head-on collision between a speeding car and a motorbike. The third person injured in the accident has been admitted to a local hospital.
A Family Dinner, Mothers Sarees, Then Death: Four Of Family Found Dead In Bihars Muzaffarpur
According to preliminary information, the man allegedly made the five children stand on a trunk and used sarees, said to belong to their deceased mother, to fashion nooses.
Bihar government to set up 100 fast-track courts to dispose of pending cases
PATNA: Bihar deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, who is also holding the portfolio of home department, on Sunday announced that 100 fast track courts (FTCs) would be established in Bihar for speedy disposal of pending cases in the courts. The fast track courts aim to reduce the burden on the judiciary and provide due attention and time to cases of a sensitive nature. Chaudhary said that these fast-track courts would lessen the burden on courts considerably, considering that more than 18 lakh cases were pending in various courts of the state. He informed eight fast-track courts have been proposed in Patna, while four courts each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. Home Minister said that three fast-track courts each would be set up in Nalanda (Biharsharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur, and Madhubani. Similarly, two fast-track courts each will operate in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Ara), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Khagaria. In addition, it is proposed to establish one fast-track court each in the Naugachhiaand Bagaha sub-divisional courts. Chaudhary said, cases jointly identified by the district magistrates and superintendents of Police will be disposed of on a priority basis. A large-scale recruitment of personnel will also be undertaken for the establishment of a total of 100 fast-track courts across 38 districts and sub-divisions of the state. A total of 900 positions are proposed for each court, comprising eight types of posts -- bench clerk, office clerk, stenographer, deposition writer, data entry operator, driver, process server, and peon or orderly. As many as 79 courts will be specially set up for the speedy disposal of cases pending under the Arms Act. Bihar government was of the opinion that quick resolution of serious cases like those under the Arms Act would improve law and order in the state, Chaudhary added.
Bihar to establish 100 Fast Track Courts for quicker disposal of pending criminal cases
Mr. Choudhary also informed that eight fast track courts are proposed in Patna, while four each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur.
Five Of Family Killed, Five Others Injured After Massive Fire Breaks Out In Bihar's Muzaffarpur
A fire in Bihar's Muzaffarpur killed five members of a family. Five others were seriously injured. Police suspect a short circuit as the cause. Investigation continues.
Five of family killed, 5 others seriously injured in fire in Bihar's Muzaffarpur
Tragedy struck Muzaffarpur, Bihar, as a devastating fire claimed five lives from a single family. The blaze, suspected to be from a short circuit, engulfed a house in Motipur locality late at night. Five other family members sustained severe burn injuries and are receiving medical attention. Firefighters battled the flames to bring the situation under control.
5 Of Family Burnt To Death As Fire Breaks Out In House In Bihar
At least five people died on the spot after a fire broke out in Muzaffarpur's Motipur Nagar Parishad area in Bihar on Friday night, officials said.
Five of family dead, five others injured in Muzaffarpur fire; short circuit suspected as cause
MUZAFFARPUR: At least five people died on the spot after a fire broke out in Muzaffarpur's Motipur Nagar Parishad area on Friday night, officials said. According to Kumar Raghvendra Raghav, Chairman of Motipur Nagar Parishad, five others sustained injuries in the incident and are currently undergoing treatment at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH). Operations to douse the blaze are still underway. Preliminary reports indicate that a short circuit could be the likely cause of the fire. A heartbreaking incident took place early this morning on Neta Road in Ward No. 13 of Motipur Nagar Parishad. In this, five members of the same family were burnt to death, and five others were seriously injured. They are undergoing treatment at SKMCH. This is a very major incident. We pay tribute to the deceased and pray for the recovery of those who are being treated. The fire brigade is still working here, and efforts to extinguish the fire are ongoing. At first glance, it seems that the fire may have been caused by a short circuit, Kumar Raghvendra Raghav told ANI . Officials stated that firefighting teams were rushed to the site immediately after the incident.
NDAs Makhana move makes inroads into fishermen vote banks
NEW DELHI: The announcement to establish a Makhana Board, along with substantial subsidies for its production, turned out to be a successful gamble for the NDA in the Bihar elections. By emphasising the benefits of this initiative, the NDA routed out the Opposition alliance INDIA in the Assembly seats of the makhana growing belt, which includes Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Supaul, Samastipur, Purnia, Saharsa, Khagaria, and Supaul districts. The region is home to over five lakh families from the fishermen community, who are heavily involved in makhana production, and they overwhelmingly supported the NDA. According to the Bihar caste-based census of 2023, the Mallah community (fishermen/boatmen, also known as Nishad) constitutes 2.6% of Bihars population. Given that Bihars total population is approximately 13.07 crore (130.7 million), this translates to around 3.4 million people. Interestingly, the Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP), which represents the fishermen community and joined the opposition alliance INDIA, failed to garner their votes. The Centre has announced a setting up of National Makhana Board with a budget package of Rs 475 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26, although it has yet to be established. The state contributes to 90% of the total makhana production in the country. Additionally, the Bihar government has launched a seed scheme (202527) aimed at introducing improved makhana varieties with a 75% subsidy.
LJP claims SC man murdered by RJD for voting against them
Patna: The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) on Monday accused RJD supporters of murdering a scheduled caste man for not voting for their party in the Bihar assembly election, and claimed that it is proof that they want to bring back jungle raj. While the man, identified as Shankar Paswan, was killed in Muzaffarpur district, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey
NEW DELHI, Nov 9 : Edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah, which remains bullish on the online medium of education, is also betting big on its offline expansion by opening new learning centres in cities where demand is high, its co-founder and CEO Alakh Pandey said. The company plans to set up centres in several new locations, including Muzaffarpur (Bihar), Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Akola and Latur (Maharashtra), Rajkot (Gujarat), Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), Bhatinda (Punjab), Jorhat (Assam), and Chennai (Tamil Nadu), according to the draft [] The post PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bihar recorded historic polling of 65.08 per cent in first phase of Assembly elections, says EC
Bihar has registered a historic polling of 65.08 per cent in the first phase of the Assembly elections, the highest in the state's history, the Election Commission said on Saturday. As per the latest update provided by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Bihar, the turnout is 7.79 per cent more than the consolidated polling percentage of the 2020 Assembly polls, when 57.29 per cent of the electors had cast their votes. Two districts Muzaffarpur and Samastipur recorded over 70 per cent voting, according to EC. While Muzaffarpur registered 71.81 per cent turnout, it was 71.74 per cent in Samastipur. In the first phase of the polls, a total of 3.75 crore people were eligible to cast their votes at 45,341 polling stations, including 36,733 in rural areas, on November 6 to decide the electoral fate of 1,314 candidates, of whom 1,192 are men and 122 women. Of the 3.75 crore voters, 1.98 crore are men and 1.76 crore women. Women had come out in large numbers to exercise their franchise in the November 6 polls. Other districts that recorded a high polling percentage were Madhepura (69.59), Saharsa (69.38), Vaishali (68.50) and Khagaria (67.90). Patna district recorded 59.02 per cent voting, while Lakhisarai registered 64.98 per cent, Munger 62.74 and Siwan 60.61. The remaining 122 seats of the 243-member assembly will vote on November 11, while the counting will take place on November 14. (With inputs from PTI) Bihar Assembly polls: Claims & counter-claims over turnout in first phase
Bihar Polls Phase 1: EC says final turnout at 65.08%, highest in states history
Bihar has made headlines with an unprecedented voter turnout in the initial phase of the assembly elections, where more than 65% of eligible citizens exercised their democratic right. This figure reflects a promising rise compared to past elections, especially with a notable spike in women's involvement. Districts such as Muzaffarpur and Samastipur outshone others, showcasing stellar turnout rates above 70%.
Bihar Elections: Record phase 1 turnout sets up 'sushasan vs jobs' showdown
In Bihars highest-ever voter turnout, nearly 65% of 3.75 crore electors cast their ballots on Thursday across 121 constituencies in the first phase of the assembly elections a high-stakes contest seen as a litmus test of the ruling NDAs popularity. In a statement, the Election Commission said the first phase of the assembly elections concluded peacefully in a festive mood with the highest-ever voter turnout of 64.66 percent in the history of Bihar. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vinod Singh Gunjiyal said women came out in large numbers to cast their votes, with a lot of enthusiasm. The NDA, in power for much of the past two decades, is leaning on its image of sushasan or good governance, contrasting it with what it calls the jungle raj of the RJD-Congress years. The opposition bloc, meanwhile, is banking on anti-incumbency and Tejashwi Yadavs ambitious jobs-for-every-home pledge to challenge the ruling alliance. The polls for the 243-member assembly are being closely watched not only for their local implications but also as an early indicator of the political mood ahead of 2029, and follow the highly controversial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll by the EC, which came under attack from opposition parties for alleged igging and manipulation of voter lists. The second and the last phase will be held on November 11, and the counting will take place on November 14. Muslim women vote in large numbers in first phase of Bihar polls after SIR exercise Stakes are high for both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc, with several key leaders , including RJD's Yadav, Deputy CMs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, besides a slew of ministers, being among the 1,314 candidates in fray in this phase. Stray incidents of violence, including an alleged attack on Sinha's vehicle , were reported from some areas during the polling. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed rallies in a couple of constituencies going to polls in the second and final phase, felt that the noticeably high number of women turning up to vote was a good sign for the NDA. Mothers, daughters, and sisters have been the worst sufferers of 'jungle raj'. Today, they seem to have put up a fortress around polling booths to prevent the return of 'jungle raj', Modi remarked. The NDA hopes that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's record, along with recent welfare measures such as 125 units of free power, Rs 10,000 cash transfers to over 1 crore women, and an increase in social security pensions, will help counter anti-incumbency. However, the opposition dismissed the boasts of the BJP-led coalition and hoped that people would vote for a change. RJD president Lalu Prasad, who hopes that his younger son and heir apparent Yadav will form the next government, came out with an evocative social media post, drawing the analogy of a oti. If a roti is not flipped on a tawa (pan), it gets burnt. Twenty years is a long time. A Tejashwi government is essential to build a new Bihar, Prasad wrote on X. There have also been allegations and counter-allegations from both sides on the polling day. Deputy CM Sinha, who is seeking a fourth consecutive term from Lakhisarai, claimed that one of the cars in his convoy was attacked by RJD supporters trying to intimidate voters belonging to extremely backward classes. On the other hand, the RJD alleged on X that voting had been deliberately slowed down in areas where the INDIA bloc was strongly placed, a charge promptly rejected by the EC. 'BJP will try to steal votes with all its might,' Rahul tells Bihar voters, urges youth to 'stop it' A notable feature of this election has been the presence of Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party, which the former political strategist believes could emerge as the proverbial dark horse. Kishor has caught public imagination with his promise of making the state among the top-ranking ones in the country, and to this end, he has not shied away from making a few bold statements, including his announcement that he intends to scrap the prohibition law, which has been bleeding the state dry. Polling was held across 18 districts, with Muzaffarpur and Samastipur recording the highest turnouts, as per the latest available data. Muzaffarpur recorded a turnout of 70.96 per cent, while the polling percentage in Samastipur stood at 70.63. Madhepura recorded 67.21 per cent turnout, followed by Vaishali at 67.37 per cent, Saharsa at 66.84 per cent, Khagaria at 66.36 per cent, Lakhisarai at 65.05 per cent, Munger at 60.40 per cent, Siwan at 60.31 per cent, Nalanda at 58.91 per cent, and Patna at 57.93 per cent. The low turnout in Patna was largely attributed to urban constituencies such as Bankipur, Digha, and Kumhrar, where electors are known to be less enthusiastic. According to the Election Commission, the assembly elections of 1951-52 saw the lowest voter turnout in the state at 42.6 per cent, while the one in 2000 saw the highest turnout before this, at 62.57 per cent. In the last assembly polls in 2020, held under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, a voter turnout of 57.29 per cent was recorded. The 2015 elections recorded a turnout of 56.91 per cent, while the one before that, in 2010, the polling percentage stood at 52.73. Politics in Bihar is as much about numbers as it is about castes. Caste and community loyalties remain crucial, with Yadavs, Kushwahas, Kurmis, Brahmins, and Dalits shaping outcomes in key constituencies. Understanding Bihars caste matrix: The key to unlocking poll outcomes in the state
Muslim women vote in large numbers in first phase of Bihar polls after SIR exercise
PATNA/SAHEBGANJ/HAJIPUR: The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections witnessed a high turnout of Muslim women voters, a trend that observers said underscored the impact of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Many women, especially from the Muslim community, returned to Bihar from other states where they live with their families to ensure their names remained valid on the electoral rolls and to cast their votes. Their concerns stemmed from the fear that prolonged absence from the state could lead to their names being deleted or duplicated elsewhere. Several voters said they had either applied to transfer their names from rolls in other states or requested deletion there to remain registered in Bihar. Political analysts in Patna noted that the surge in turnout reflected growing voter awareness following the SIR exercise, which reportedly saw the deletion of thousands of names across communities. Sabina Khatoon, 45, accompanied by her mother-in-law, Rubia, 57, and daughter Baby, 20, travelled from Nashik in Maharashtra to vote in Patna. SIR made us realise the importance of ensuring our names remain valid. In our mohalla, Phulwarisharif, over two dozen Muslim women have returned from Gujarat, Kolkata and Mumbai just to vote, she said, stressing that no Indian should miss the opportunity to participate in elections. Muslim-majority areas recorded significantly higher female voter participation compared with the 2020 Assembly polls. According to social activist Md Naqib from Sahebganj in Muzaffarpur, the increase was even more visible in rural regions, where the SIR drive had encouraged women from minority and other communities to become more conscious not only about voting but also about obtaining essential documents like birth certificates for their children. In Hajipur, officials estimated that the turnout of Muslim women rose by over 30% from the previous election. Sofia, a homemaker from Patna, said she spent Rs 10,000 travelling from Kolkata with her family to vote. The first phase thus saw a strong display of electoral awareness among women, particularly in districts affected by high male migration.
Bihar Election: Phase 1 Voter Turnout Stands at 60.13% Till 5 PM
Among the 18 districts, Begusarai recorded the highest turnout of 67.32 per cent, followed by Gopalganj at 64.96 per cent and Muzaffarpur at 64.63 per cent
Bihar will see portfolio of murder if RJD wins: Shah
PATNA: UNION Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday vowed to make Bihar free from floods if the NDA retains power and claimed that the INDIA bloc would create three portfolios of murder, kidnapping and extortion if the opposition alliance gets a chance to form a government in the state. Shah also urged people to vote for the NDA to check the recurrence of jungle raj witnessed during the RJD regime in the state. Addressing election rallies in Muzaffarpur and Vaishali, Shah appealed to electors to cast votes to prevent the return of jungle raj that saw kidnappings, murders, atrocities. If voted to power, the NDA will make Bihar flood-free. It is our pledge. We will set up a separate ministry to ensure that Bihar is saved from flood fury, Shah said. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chalked out a scheme to ensure water from Koshi, Ganga, and Gandak rivers reaches farmers fields for irrigation in Bihar. Shah termed the NDA allies -- BJP, JD(U), Chirag Paswans LJP (RV), HAM, and Kushwahas party -- as five Pandavas and said they will ensure Bihars prosperity. He acused Lalu Prasad and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi of trying to make their sons Bihar CM and prime minister, respectively, and asserted that both posts are not vacant. Lalu & company and Rahul & company indulged in `12 lakh crore scams and corruption, Shah alleged. In Lakhisarai, Shah claimed that opposition INDIA bloc would be wiped out in the assembly elections as people would take revenge for Congress workers allegedly insulting Prime Minister Narendra Modis mother and Rahul Gandhis remarks against Modis mother and Chhathi Maiya. He said that Rahul Gandhi insulted Chhathi Maiya while criticising PM Modi, saying those worshipping the goddess were doing drama. Taking a swipe at Sonia Gandhi, he exhorted people to press on EVM buttons having NDA symbols with such rage that the tremors were felt in Italy. Shah cites welfare schemes, pledges jobs for youth Highlighting welfare schemes launched under the leadership of Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the reduction in GST would help litchi growers in Bihar, adding that steps are being taken to set up a mega food park in Muzaffarpur with `20,000 crore investment. He also said one crore Bihar youths will be given jobs if the NDA wins.
Ministries for Murder, Kidnapping, Extortion: Amit Shah Targets Lalus Son in Bihar Rally
Muzaffarpur, Nov 2: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday launched a scathing attack on RJD supremo Lalu Prasad and his family, alleging that if Lalus son Tejashwi Yadav came to power, Bihar would see the creation of three ministries for murder, kidnapping, and extortion. Addressing a poll rally in Muzaffarpur, Shah urged people [] The post Ministries for Murder, Kidnapping, Extortion: Amit Shah Targets Lalus Son in Bihar Rally appeared first on Northlines .
Bihar To See 3 New Portfolios For Murder, Kidnapping, Extortion If Lalus Son Voted To Power: Shah
Muzaffarpur, Nov 2: Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday unleashed a no-holds-barred attack on the family of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, alleging that if his son is voted to power, Bihar will see creation of three ministries for murder, kidnapping and extortion. On the other hand, if the NDA retains power, Bihar will be made flood-free, he claimed, while addressing a rally in Muzaffarpur. He urged people to vote for the NDA to check the recurrence of jungle raj witnessed [] The post Bihar To See 3 New Portfolios For Murder, Kidnapping, Extortion If Lalus Son Voted To Power: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Watch: Vote NDA to stop RJDs Jungle Raj - Amit Shah in Muzaffarpur
BJP lodges complaint with Bihar CEO against Rahul Gandhi over Bharat Natyam jibe at PM Modi
The BJP on Thursday filed a formal complaint with the Chief Election Officer (CEO) of Bihar against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of making derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent campaign rallies. The complaint, submitted by Bindhyachal Rai, convenor of the partys Election Commission Coordination Department, alleged that Gandhis comments mocked and insulted the dignity of the Prime Ministers office, violating the Model Code of Conduct and the Representation of the People Act, 1951. At rallies in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga on Wednesday, Gandhi had said, Narendra Modi is ready to enact all types of drama. You try telling him at a poll rally that, Mr Prime Minister, we will vote for you if you dance. He will readily perform Bharat Natyam. Calling the remarks personal and demeaning, the BJP urged the Election Commission to issue a show-cause notice to Gandhi, direct him to offer an unconditional public apology, and bar him from campaigning for a specific period to preserve the sanctity of democratic and electoral decorum. The party also accused the Congress leader of attempting to malign Modis image for political gain, describing it as a corrupt electoral practice. Earlier in the day, Union Minister Annapurna Devi accused Gandhi of hurting religious sentiments by allegedly mocking Chhath Puja. She referred to his remarks that Modi had planned to take a dip in the Yamuna during the festival but cancelled it after discovering that a clean-water puddle had been arranged because the river was polluted. Women of Purvanchal who observe the festival with a 36-hour nirjala fast are aggrieved by his comments, Annapurna Devi said. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also slammed Gandhi for his remarks targeting the Prime Minister, saying his comments had left even good leaders in the Congress embarrassed. The Congress party has suffered due to the comments of Rahul Gandhi. The good people in Congress too are embarrassed by his comments. No leader can speak in such a language, Rijiju said on the sidelines of the third national conference on the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). He added that the people of India would never bring the Congress back to power if Gandhi continued to speak in such a manner. Every time Rahul Gandhi opens his mouth, the party faces losses. The nation is progressing, but the Congress continues to face setbacks, the senior BJP leader remarked. Responding to the development, senior Congress leader Pawan Khera retorted: It is an irony that the Prime Minister, who uses terms like 'mujra' while targeting his opponents, has a problem with the word 'dance'. Khera was alluding to the May 25 comment of Modi. While addressing a rally in Bihar, the PM had said, I will foil the plans of the INDIA bloc to rob the SCs, STs and OBC of their rights and divert those to Muslims. They may remain enslaved and perform mujra to please their vote bank. Talking to reporters in Patna, Khera claimed that the BJP has no agenda and no report card to put before the public. Earlier in the day, Union Minister Annapurna Devi had alleged that Rahul Gandhi was maligning the sanctity of Chhath puja by terming it a drama. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who was on a two-day campaign tour of Bihar, on Wednesday said Rahul Gandhi's remark on Chhath puja as an insult to the faith of devotees . In a post on X, the chief minister said Gandhis remarks reflected political immaturity and amounted to a gross insult to the faith of millions of Chhath devotees. His comment on Chhath and ridicule directed at Mother Yamuna clearly show that his thoughts are so much distanced from Indian culture, Sanatan tradition, and folk beliefs, she said. Gupta added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, the Delhi government had ensured a remarkable confluence of faith and cleanliness at Yamuna ghats during Chhath celebrations, unlike in previous years when devotees were forced to worship amidst foam and filth. She said the BJPs commitment to faith and cleanliness stood in sharp contrast to Congresss negative politics. Calling Gandhis remarks on Modi derogatory and a reflection of political bankruptcy, the chief minister said the Congress had no agenda for Bihar and was resorting to personal accusations for cheap popularity. (With inputs from PTI)
PM Modi Slams Congress for Insulting Chhath Puja | Bihar Elections 2025 | #plainspeak | News18
In a fiery rally in Muzaffarpur, PM Narendra Modi strongly condemned Congress and the Mahagathbandhan for insulting the revered Chhath Puja, a festival celebrated far beyond Bihar and known worldwide. Modi called out Rahul Gandhis comment labeling the festival as drama, calling it an insult to Bihar's faith, culture, and the devotion of millions of women observing the demanding fast. He accused the opposition of disrespecting the sentiments of Biharis and vowed that such disrespect would not be tolerated. n18oc_india News18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
The Congress party has accused the NDA government in Bihar of presiding over a surge in crimes against women. Party leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted several incidents, questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal for votes. He cited the case of a young Dalit girl's death and the Muzaffarpur shelter home scandal.
RJD and Congress can never develop Bihar: PM Modi in Muzaffarpur rally
Mr. Modi claims that around 35,000 to 40,000 kidnappings had taken place during the RJDs regime
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Congress and RJD in Muzaffarpur, accusing them of insulting the Chhath Puja festival for votes. He contrasted his government's efforts to honor the festival with their alleged mockery, calling their alliance unnatural and driven by a hunger for power.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday took jabs at the 'misgovernance' of the Opposition party during the election rally in Muzaffarpur. He described the rule of Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress party in Bihar, in five words, stating Katta, Kroorta, Katuta, Kushasan and Corruption.
LIVE | PM Modi tears into Tejashwi, Rahul at Muzaffarpur rally; says 'Jungle Raj wont return'
In No-Holds-Barred Attack, Rahul Alleges PM Can Do Anything For Votes
MUZAFFARPUR/DARBHANGA, Oct 29: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday unleashed a no-holds-barred attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of doing anything for votes and alleging that the BJP was running the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar through remote control. Gandhi made the statements, kicking off his assembly poll campaign in the state by holding back-to-back rallies in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga. Addressing joint rallies alongside the INDIA blocs CM face Tejashwi Yadav, You must have seen the drama on [] The post In No-Holds-Barred Attack, Rahul Alleges PM Can Do Anything For Votes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The INDIA bloc's chief ministerial candidate and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, on Wednesday, promised that cooking gas cylinders would be made available for Rs 500 if the opposition alliance came to power in Bihar. Speaking at a rally in Muzaffarpur, where he shared the stage with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi said, Gas cylinders will be available for Rs 500 if Tejashwi forms the next government. Taking a jibe at the Nitish Kumar led NDA government, Tejashwi reiterated his allegation that the JDU leader is being made a puppet by the BJP who has been running the state hrough remote control. But, we Biharis must drive out the government which is being controlled by outsiders ( baahari ), who seek votes in Bihar but care for setting up factories only in Gujarat, he said. The RJD leader, who has been campaigning in a T-shirt, in an obvious bid to underscore his youthful appeal, in contrast with CM Kumar, who is in his mid-70s, also made the crowds chant slogans in favour of 'yuva ki sarkaar.' Tejashwi also claimed that the slew of populist measures taken in the recent past by the NDA government in the state had been a copy of whatever he had promised earlier. Citing an example, Yadav said, We had promised 200 units of free electricity. Those in power got scared that this would resonate with voters. So, they made 125 units free. The RJD leader also sought to draw a contrast between his women-centric promises like 'Mai Bahin Yojana', which proposes a monthly stipend of Rs 2,500, and the 'Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana' recently launched by the Nitish Kumar government, as part of which Rs 10,000 have been transferred into accounts of over 1 crore women. We are promising assistance. What the government has offered is money given on credit, which they will seek to recover with interest, claimed Yadav. The RJD leader's posturing may be seen as an attempt to wean away a section of women voters of the state, who have been said to be more inclined towards the NDA. He also reiterated his promise of ensuring that one member of each household in the state had a government job, saying people's aspirations were set to soar, like a ball hit for a six. Naukri milega pakka. Ummedon kaa lagega chhakka, said Yadav, evoking wild applause from the crowds. Apparently mindful of the taints of corruption on his family and allegations of 'jungle raj' levelled by the NDA on the RJD rule, Yadav vowed to adopt an uncompromising stance on the two scourges. (With inputs from PTI)
BIHAR (Sakara) Arriving late but greeted by roaring crowds, Rahul Gandhi captured the hearts of a mostly youthful audience waving Congress and RJD flags amid the shimmering rain. Launching his first election rally in Bihars Muzaffarpur after weeks of silence over the Mahagathbandhans seat-sharing dispute, the Congress leader chose Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the prime target of his attack. As politics often springs surprises especially in Bihar, where history has witnessed many Rahul Gandhi intriguingly spared Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the expected NDA chief ministerial face, from his direct attack. This move took even Congress and RJD supporters by surprise. Equally notable was that Rahul, despite being part of the Mahagathbandhan, did not frequently mention Tejashwi Yadav in his address, keeping his focus largely on Modi. Arriving late by helicopter, Rahul shared the stage with the Mahagathbandhans CM face Tejashwi Yadav for the first time at an election rally. Opening his speech, he asked the crowd, How is the mood? The audience responded enthusiastically, shouting, Josh is high, badlo sarkar! From there, Rahul launched a series of blistering attacks on Prime Minister Modi at Muzaffarpurs Sakra Assembly seat, which is reserved for Scheduled Castes. Ask Modi ji to come on stage and dance he will dance before the election, Rahul told the crowd. But after the election, he will disappear. You will find him only at Ambanis wedding. He also criticised the Delhi governments Chhath preparations, calling them part of Modis drama. Modi ji has nothing to do with Chhath or with Bihari people; he only puts on a show, Rahul asserted, mocking the Prime Ministers claims about providing cheap internet data. He gave cheap data, but gave profits to Ambani, he taunted, adding that the Mahagathbandhan government would create a new Bihar. However, this remark didnt elicit much applause. Many young listeners were heard saying, Whose company gives data doesnt matter what matters is that we get it cheaply. Amid the pouring rain a result of the approaching cyclone at a venue located in a densely populated Muslim and Scheduled Caste area, Rahul Gandhi continued lashing out at the Prime Minister, accusing him of attacking the Constitution. Whatever rights you enjoy today come from the Constitution, he said. But that Constitution is under attack by the BJP and RSS. Modi ji is stealing elections he stole them in Maharashtra and Haryana, and now hes trying in Bihar. Be cautious, Rahul warned. He also described the BJP as being against social justice. Using the acronym SIR, Rahul said it stood for chunav chori. He further alleged that land in Mumbais Dharavi where many people from Bihar run small businesses had been handed over to a billionaire. Criticising Modi over GST and demonetisation, he claimed both had destroyed small businesses. The Mahagathbandhan, he said, wanted everything to be Made in Bihar, not Made in China. Continuing his fierce attack, Rahul reiterated that Modi and the BJP were anti-poor and opposed to social justice. Modi ji wants to end elections; hes in the business of vote chori. But the people of Bihar are wise and understand everyones intentions in politics, he declared. He assured the crowd that if the Mahagathbandhan formed the government, it would be inclusive and representative of all religions. It will take time, but our vision is to make Bihar a global centre, he promised, adding that the people of Bihar possess exceptional intelligence. Rahul Gandhi also accused the Nitish Kumar-led government of being remotely controlled by the BJP. The BJP is using Nitish Kumars face but running the government from behind the scenes, he said, concluding that during his yatra, people had clearly expressed their strong desire for change in Bihar.
Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of controlling Bihar's government remotely, using Nitish Kumar as a figurehead. He criticized the ruling party for opposing social justice and allowing a monopoly in telecom, while highlighting the emergence of two Indias: one for the masses and another for billionaires. Gandhi also alleged attempts to manipulate elections in Bihar.
LIVE| Rahul Gandhi kicks off Bihar campaign from Muzaffarpur, joins Tejashwi Yadav in public meet
Bihar polls: INDIA bloc to release election manifesto in Patna today, Rahul likely to skip event
PATNA: The INDIA bloc will release its joint election manifesto for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections on Tuesday evening. The event is expected to see leaders of all the parties who are contesting the elections together. After bitterness over seat-sharing issues, the release of a joint manifesto will come as a boost to the INDIA bloc partners. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, however, will not be present at the event as he is expected to address public rallies in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga on Wednesday. Opposition chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Prasad Yadav said that the election manifesto will present a blueprint of a five-year plan if the opposition alliance is voted to power after the election. It will focus on unemployment, inflation, migration, education, and farmers issues. Taking a swipe at the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Tejashwi said, We have declared the CM candidate, but what about the NDA? They have so far not declared their CM face nor have talked about their vision for Bihars development. He slammed NDA for talking only about negative things. People are in a mood to change the 20-year-old khatara (rotten) government. We have already launched the election campaign. Even today, we have to address rallies at several places, he added. During his recent rallies in Muslim dominated Katihar and Kishanganj, RJD leader claimed that the Waqf (Amendment) Act would be repealed if the opposition was voted to power. The Waqf (Amendment) Act will be thrown into dustbin if the INDIA bloc is voted to power, he said. Soon after the release of the manifesto, senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sonia Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge, are scheduled to address various rallies in the state. The dates of AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadras rallies in Bihar have been changed, and these will now take place on October 30 and November 1. Earlier, it was due to begin on October 28, coinciding with the manifesto release. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is likely to kickstart her election campaign from Bachhwara in Begusrai on October 30. For the NDA, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed public rallies in Samastipur and Begusarai last week. He will visit the state again on October 30. The prime minister is expected to attend a road show in Patna as well. Both the Congress and the BJP have released their list of star campaigners for the election. The first phase of polling will be held on November 6 and the second phase on November 11. The election results will be declared on November 14.
Rahul to kick off campaign in Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga
NEW DELHI: As Bihar braces for the state Assembly polls, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will kick off his campaign on Wednesday with rallies in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts. The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha is expected to be joined by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, the chief ministerial candidate of the INDIA bloc. Sources says the grand alliance will release a common manifesto on October 28. This come days after a press conference in which Tejashwi was announced as the chief ministerial candidate after days of internal feud over the sharing of seats. Gandhis first rally will be held at the reserved constituency of Sakra in Muzaffarpur, where the party has fielded Umesh Ram, the runner-up in the 2020 polls. Alliance partners, CPI(ML) leader Dipankar Bhattacharya and VIP chief Mukesh Sahani may also be in attendance. Later, Gandhi will address another rally in the adjoining Darbhanga district in support of the INDIA bloc candidate, RJDs Lalit Rai. This would be Gandhis visit to the poll-bound state after the conclusion of the Voter Adhikar Yatra on September 1.
INDIA bloc to release poll manifesto on October 28; Rahul to join campaign
Rahul Gandhi to hold his first election campaign in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga on October 29; Tejashwi slams the Central government and accuses it of telling lies about running special trains during Chhath
Bihar: Rahul Gandhi to Hold Rallies in Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga on Oct 29
Gandhi's first rally will be at the reserved constituency of Sakra in Muzaffarpur, where the party has fielded Umesh Ram, the runner-up of the 2020 polls, said a statement issued by Rajesh Rathore, the chairperson of the state Congress media cell, on Monday.
JD(U) expels 16 rebels, including sitting MLA, two former MLAs, ahead of Bihar Assembly polls
PATNA: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumars Janata Dal (United) initiated disciplinary action against its 16 rebel leaders ahead of state assembly elections. A sitting MLA and two former MLAs are among the leaders who have been expelled from the party. Most of the leaders are contesting the election against candidates of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), of which JD(U) is a part of. The suspended leaders have been accused of being involved in anti-party activities and violating the partys ideology. Prominent among those who have been expelled are Gopalpur MLA Narendra Niraj alias Gopal Mandal, former MLC Sanjeev Shyam Singh and former minister Hemraj Singh. Gopal Mandal staged a dharna outside the chief ministers residence in Patna after he learned that the party was planning to drop him from the seat. He became more vocal after JD(U) fielded Bulo Mandal, a former Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader from Gopalpur. Later, Gopal Mandal filed his nomination as an Independent candidate from the same seat. After filing his nomination, Gopal appealed to the electorate to vote for him as he was a true follower of JD(U) ideology. Gopal Mandal also expressed his faith in Nitish Kumars leadership. However, it did not cut ice. JD(U) expels 11 leaders for anti-party activities in poll-bound Bihar Bulo Mandal filed his nomination from the Gopalpur seat. I have already launched my election campaign, said Bulo Mandal. Sanjeev Shyam Singh is fighting from the Gurua assembly seat in Gaya district as a candidate of Jan Suraaj Party. Similarly, Hemraj Singh is contesting the election from Katihar in the Seemanchal region as an Independent candidate. Two other MLAs against whom disciplinary action has been initiated areMaheshwar Prasad Yadav and his aide Prabhat Kiran. Both the leaders had criticised the JD(U) top leadership over the distribution of tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. Yadav, a former MLA, came out in the open against Komal Singh, who has been fielded from the Gaighat seat in Muzaffarpur district. The expulsions were announced in two separate communications issued, one on late Saturday and the other on Sunday. Earlier on Saturday, JD(U) expelled 11 leaders, including former minister Shailesh Kumar. Others include Sanjay Singh, former MLC, Shyam Bahadur Singh, former MLA, Ranvijay Singh, former MLC, MLA Sudarshan Kumar, Ashma Parveen, Amar Kumar Singh Luv Kumar, Divyanshu Bhardwaj, Asha Suman and Vivek Shukla. Meanwhile, former MLA Jai Kumar Singh has also expressed his displeasure over the selection of candidates for the 2025 assembly elections. Jai is contesting the election from Dinara as an Independent while Sudarshan Kumar is pitted against JD(U) nominee Pushpanjay Kumar on the Barbigha seat in Sheikhpura district. Homecoming Vote: Migrant workers returning for Chhath puja could decide Bihar polls
Homecoming Vote: Migrant workers returning for Chhath puja could decide Bihar polls
NEW DELHI: With nearly 70 lakh Bihari migrant workers returning home for the Chhath festival on October 2728, just a week before the first phase of Bihar Assembly polls, political experts expect a surge in voter turnout across the state's 243 constituencies. The Assembly polls will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with counting and results scheduled for November 14. According to estimates, around 2.5 to 3.1 crore Biharis work outside the state, including 8090 lakh who migrate annually for work as labourers, masons, mechanics, and other trades. The migrant workers coming home, mostly labourers and employees working in factories, construction sites, and offices across India, are being considered a decisive voter bloc. Many of them are likely to stay back and vote, especially in districts that recorded low polling in 2020. Both the NDA and Mahagathbandhan (opposition grand alliance) are urging migrant workers to stay back and vote, portraying it as a duty to ensure a better future for Bihar. The majority of those who come (for the festival) belong to Scheduled Castes and marginalised communities whose families benefit from government welfare schemes. Their womenfolk will certainly think of the NDA, not the RJD, claimed a BJP leader. However, RJD leaders disagreed, claiming that the migrant workers facing hardship in other BJP-ruled states would not vote for the NDA in Bihar. Those who face hardship outside Bihar due to unemployment and poor development under NDA rule will never vote for the NDA, said a senior RJD functionary. Those who feel humiliated or exploited in other states are less likely to vote for parties aligned with those governments, admitted a senior NDA leader, requesting anonymity. The NDA leader, however hoped that rust in Modi and the work done by Nitish Kumar may convince the migrant workers to back the JDU-led alliance. While the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan has made joblessness a central campaign issue, the ruling NDA has highlighted job creation and social welfare to counter the attack. Both camps are actively reaching out to returning migrants through local networks, community meetings, and WhatsApp groups. Districts such as Purnia, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Saharsa, Sitamarhi, Gaya, Jehanabad, Saran, Motihari, Jamui, Nawada, and Aurangabad all major hubs of outmigration are expected to see higher participation this time. Poll analysts believe the Kosi region, plagued by recurrent floods and high migration, could witness a sharp rise in voting, with nearly half of the returnees expected to stay through election day. Similar trends are anticipated in the Tirhut and Purnia divisions, depending on migrants ability to sustain themselves economically after Chhath. Waqf Act will be thrown into dustbin if INDIA bloc voted to power in Bihar: Tejashwi Yadav JD(U) expels 11 leaders for anti-party activities in poll-bound Bihar
PM Modi to visit poll-bound Bihar on October 30
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on October 30 to attend programs in Muzaffarpur and Chhapra, BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal said. Modi has already addressed rallies in Samastipur and Begusarai, launching the NDAs campaign for the November 6 and 11 Assembly elections.
Rise and rise of Son of Mallah in Bihar political potboiler
PATNA: The INDIA bloc has finally yielded ground to Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani, who was on Thursday formally announced as deputy chief ministerial face of the Opposition alliance for the Bihar Assembly elections. It has been a meteoric rise for 44-year-old Sahani. Starting as a Bollywood set designer, he chose politics as his next career, formed a new party in 2018, contested 2020 Assembly elections as part of NDA and finally ended up as a hard bargainer in the 2025 state polls. Sahanis party has no MLA in the 243-member Bihar Assembly. Better known as Son of Mallah, Sahani is now with INDIA bloc comprising the RJD, Congress and three Left partiesCPI-ML, CPI, CPI(M). He comes from Mallah (fishermen) community, an EBC, which constitutes nearly 2.5% of Bihars population, as per the caste survey conducted in 2022-23. Mallahs, Sahanis and Nishads constitute nearly 9% of the states population. The VIP chief is expected to tilt their votes towards the INDIA bloc. Mallahs, a sub-caste of Nishad community, are spread across the state but have influence in certain constituencies in north Bihar, particularly Mithilanchal and Seemanchal regions. Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Supaul, Vaishali, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Kishanganj, Saharsa, Khagaria, East Champaran and West Champaran are among districts where fishermen have sizeable population. Elated over being named as INDIA blocs deputy CM face, Sahani targeted BJP, saying, BJP ko jab tak hum todenge nahi, tab tak chhodenge nahi (I will not let go until I cause a split in BJP). Sahani said that he had been waiting for the moment (being declared deputy CM face) for the last three and a half years. He narrated how his MLAs were poached by the BJP after he raised the issue of reservation for fishermen in Bihar and other states. I have not forgotten the moment when I was dropped from the Nitish cabinet, and my MLAs were poached by BJP. I had vowed then to teach BJP a lesson at an opportune time. And that time has come, he told this reporter. In the 2020 Assembly elections, four VIP candidates won. In November 2021, its Bochahan MLA Musafir Sahni died. In the by-election, the BJP fielded its candidate on the seat earlier held by VIP. Moreover, Sahanis decision to contest elections in Uttar Pradesh against the BJP strained their relationship. Barely a week before the first phase of the Assembly elections in 2020, Sahani had jumped from the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) and aligned with the BJP and JD(U). He had then accused RJD and its allies of betrayal as his party was sidelined in the seat-sharing deal. But after his bitter experience with the BJP after 2020 elections, he again aligned with RJD-Congress-led Mahagathandhan and is eyeing better performance in the Assembly polls to be held on November 6 and 11. Sahani initially demanded 25 seats and a deputy CM post but has to settle with 15 seats and deputy CM post. VIP chief likely to tip poll scales in favour of INDIA Sahanis party has no MLA in the 243-member Bihar Assembly. Better known as Son of Mallah, Sahani is now with INDIA bloc comprising the RJD, Congress and three Left partiesCPI-ML, CPI, CPI(M). He comes from Mallah (fishermen) community, an EBC, which constitutes nearly 2.5% of Bihars population, as per the caste survey conducted in 2022-23. Mallahs, Sahanis and Nishads constitute nearly 9% of the states population. The VIP chief is expected to tilt their votes towards INDIA.
Former RJD MP Anil Sahni joins BJP ahead of Bihar polls; cites injustice to EBCs
PATNA: The main Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Wednesday suffered a major setback ahead of the Bihar assembly elections after former MP Anil Sahni resigned from the party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of senior leaders, including Union Minister and Bihar election in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan. Sahnis name had figured in the RJDs list of 40 star campaigners for the upcoming elections. A former MLA from Kurhani assembly seat, Sahni was reportedly upset with the party leadership after his son was denied a ticket from the constituency. The RJD has fielded Babloo Kushwaha as its candidate from Kurhani in Muzaffarpur district. After joining the BJP, Sahni accused the RJD of doing injustice to people belonging to Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). He alleged that dedicated party workers were being sidelined, while new entrants were being given tickets for the polls, leading to resentment among grassroots cadres. Sahni had contested the 2020 assembly election from Kurhani on an RJD ticket and won by defeating Kedar Prasad Gupta of the BJP. However, he was later debarred from contesting elections after being convicted in a forged air-ticket scandal probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). In the 2022 bypoll, BJPs Kedar Prasad Gupta won the seat. Bihar BJP president Dilip Jaiswal welcomed Sahni into the party, saying his induction would strengthen the BJPs support base in Muzaffarpur and adjoining districts. Former MLA Asha Devi also joined the BJP along with Sahni.
With weeks ahead of the Assembly polls, Bihar Chief Minister and JDU supremo Nitish Kumar has sparked a fresh debate over his mental health after a viral video showed him insisting on garlanding a female candidate during a poll rally in Muzaffarpur's Meenapur constituency. In the video, the 75-year-old leader is seen insisting on garlanding Rama Nishad, the BJP candidate from Aurai constituency. In local Hindu traditions, a woman cannot let anyone except her husband put a garland around her neck. Nishad, who had joined the BJP last week, was seen squirming when Kumar moved towards her with the garland in his hand. JD(U) working president and Kumars close aide, Sanjay Kumar Jha, hurriedly tried to prevent the CM from creating a scene by grabbing his hand. Kumar briefly lowered it, but then suddenly garlanded the woman. Appearing irked by Sanjay Kumar Jha's attempt to stop him, the CM said on the microphone, Ee gajab aadmi hai bhai (What a strange man). Earlier, during his speech at the rally, Kumar prefixed Shri to the female candidate's name. He also mispronounced the name of JDU candidate Ajay Kushwaha. Reacting to the video, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav repeated concerns regarding the CM's mental health. Ee gajab aadmi hai bhai. If the Chief Minister is healthy, why is he behaving like this after reading a written speech? he wrote in a post on X. !!! ? #Bihar pic.twitter.com/Xhit9l37Ib Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) October 21, 2025 The RJD leader has been raising concerns regarding Kumar's health, questioning his ability to govern the state. Earlier, sharing a similar video where Kumar appears to be greeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeatedly, Tejashwi speculated that the CM's aides might be spiking his food. Can this mental state of the Chief Minister be blamed on his close aides who may be spiking his food at the instance of alliance partner BJP?, Tejashwi Yadav asked. For quite some time, the Chief Minister has been behaving in a manner that shows he is not in the proper state of mind. He has made crude remarks about my mother Rabri Devi, a former Chief Minister, and women in general. Once he was caught on camera fooling around while the national anthem was being played in the background, he said. Clearly the Chief Minister no longer has the ability to run his government. A syndicate is calling the shots and it will be exposed soon, he charged. (With inputs from PTI)
Bihar Assembly polls: Nitish launches campaign, takes swipe at Lalu for doing nothing for women
The JD(U) president, who is seeking a record fifth consecutive term in office, was addressing his maiden election rally in Minapur constituency of Muzaffarpur district
'NDA starting election campaign with rock-solid unity,' says Bihar BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal
Jaiswal stated that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is kick-starting his election campaign from today onwards from Minapur and Kanti Assembly constituencies in Muzaffarpur, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin his election campaign on October 24 and address two public rallies in Samastipur and Begusarai.
Bihar Assembly Elections: NDA to launch campaign with Modi, Nitish rallies
On October 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gearing up to rally support in Bihar, making stops in Begusarai and Samastipur. Meanwhile, Bihars Chief Minister Nitish Kumar kicks off his campaign on October 21 with rallies in Minapur and Kanti, Muzaffarpur.
PM Modi to launch the election campaign from Karpoorigram in Bihar
Bihar BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal said that PM would then address an election rally in Begusarai on the same day. He added that PM Modi will then visit Bihar on October 30 to address election rallies in Muzaffarpur and Chapra
PM Modi to launch Bihar election campaign on Oct 24 with two back-to-back rallies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin his campaign for the Bihar assembly polls next week. He has four rallies scheduled by the end of October. The Prime Minister will address gatherings in Samastipur and Begusarai on October 24. He will return on October 30 for rallies in Muzaffarpur and Chhapra. Further rally details will be announced soon.
He completed his primary education from the government middle school in his village, Chhitarooli, and later went on to complete his high school education from Maniyari in Muzaffarpur. Read here to know more about him.
PATNA: Former state minister and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani on Friday announced that he would not contest upcoming Bihar assembly election and focus on improving partys performance. Talking to media persons, Sahani said that he decided not to contest the election as it would divert his focus from party to the seat from where he would contest the election. If I am not in the fray, I can move across the state and mobilise support for our candidate, he added. Sahani was in Darbhanga to attend nomination filing of his brother Santosh Sahani from Gaura-Bauram assembly constituency as VIP candidate. Earlier, Mukesh Sahani was set to contest election from the same seat. But later he fielded his brother from the seat. In response to a query, he said, I have decided not to contest the election. My focus will be on ensuring victory of our candidates and strengthening partys presence everywhere in Bihar. This election is significant as it is poised to witness a change at the helm of affairs. He said that Bihar was placed on the threshold of change. Bihar Badlo chahta hai (Bihar wants change). It is palpable everywhere, VIP chief said, adding that it seems to be inevitable. When asked about going to Rajya Sabha, Sahani said that he was not interested in the Upper House and wanted to become deputy chief of Bihar. Sources said that he was offered a Rajya Sabha seat when he exerted pressure on the Opposition alliance for more number of seats to his party in the ensuing election. He said that he would work for the victory of all candidates of Grand Alliance, a part of INDIA bloc, in the Bihar elections. He, however, refused to disclose the number of seats allotted to VIP. We will work to strengthen the support base of the Opposition alliance, he added. He, however, did not miss the opportunity to stake his claim for deputy chief ministers post. VIP has fielded six candidates for the first phase of election. VIP national spokesperson Dev Jyoti said that party candidates filed their nomination papers from six assembly constituencies on the last date of filing of nomination on Friday. He said that Bhogendra Sahni has been fielded from Aurai assembly seat in Muzaffarpur seat. Santosh Sahani and Rakesh Kumar filed their nominations from Gauri-Bauram and Paroo assembly seats. Similarly, Umesh Sahani, Ganesh Bharti and Navin Nishad filed nominations from Darbhanga Town, Kusheshwarsthan and Alamnagar seats, respectively. Dev Jyoti said that the names of party candidates for assembly constituencies going to polls in the second phase would be announced later.
Congress releases first list of candidates for Bihar assembly polls
The Congress released its first official list of 48 candidates for the Bihar Assembly polls on Thursday. The party's Bihar unit president Rajesh Ram has been fielded from the SC-reserved seat of Kutumba. The party had, a day before, started releasing the names of some candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar on the official handle of its Bihar unit. Congress had also posted photos of the candidates receiving their nomination certificates. This comes even as the seat-sharing arrangement between the Mahagathbandhan allies has not been officially finalized yet. In its first list, the party has fielded Bijendra Chaudhary from Muzaffarpur, Om Prakash Garg from Gopalganj, Amita Bhushan from Begusarai, Dr. Shashi Shekhar Singh from Wazirganj. Meanwhile, Kaushelendra Kumar will contest from Nalanda, and Anand Shankar Singh from Aurangabad. Anil Kumar will contest from Bikram, Lalan Kumar from Sultanganj, Amaresh Kumar from Lakhisarai, BK Ravi from Rosda, Shashibhushan Rai alias Gappu Rai from Govindganj, Jitendra Singh from Amarpur, and Shiv Prakash Garib Das from Bachhwara Assembly constituency. Trishuldhari Singh has been fielded from the Barbigha seat. pic.twitter.com/io0WmcA5sG Congress (@INCIndia) October 16, 2025
Bihar elections: Congress begins allotting party symbols, BJP completes list of its 101 candidates
PATNA: With barely two days left for filing nomination papers for the first phase of the Bihar assembly elections , political activities have intensified in the state. Congress, a major ally of the Opposition INDIA bloc, has started allotting party symbols to its candidates even as a seat-sharing deal is yet to be formally announced. Congress released its list of 17 candidates , posting the announcement on its official X handle even as seat-sharing arrangements within INDIA bloc remained unresolved. The party has fielded Anand Shanker Singh from Aurangabad, Pratima Das from Rajapakar, Shiv Prakash Garib Das from Bachhawara and Kaushalendra Kumar (Chhote Mukhiya) from Nalanda. Similarly, Om Prakash Garg will contest election from Gopalganj, Jitendra Singh from Amarpur, Amita Bhushan from Begusarai, Lalan Kumar from Sultanganj, Rajesh Kumar from Kutumba, Shashi Sekhar from Warsaliganj, Trishuldhari Singh from Barbigha, Vijendra Choudhary from Muzaffarpur. In addition, Shashi Bhushan Rai has been fielded from Govindganj, Anil Kumar from Bikram, and B K Ravi from Rosera assembly seats. Sources said that more names would be cleared after consultation with leaders of the INDIA bloc. The Congress Central Election Committee (CCEC) had approved candidates for 43 seats. The sub-committee, headed by Ajay Makan, is said to have cleared the names of eight more candidates on Wednesday. BJP releases first list of 71 candidates for Bihar Assembly elections In the ruling NDA camp, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released names of all 101 candidates. The third list of 18 candidates were released late on Wednesday. According to the list, Bina Devi will contest from Kochadhaman, Sangita Kumari from Mohania, Sanjay Pandey from Narkatiaganj, Satish Kumar Yadav from Raghopur and Bharat Bind from Bhabua. Murari Paswan will join the fray from Pirpainti and Ashok Kumar Singh from Ramgarh. Earlier the party has released second list of 12 candidates, including folk singer Maithili Thakur from Alinagar and former IPS officer Anand Mishra from Buxar. With this, the BJP has announced candidates for all 101 seats. NDAs ally--Janata Dal (United) has released its first list of 57 candidates. Senior leaders like Umesh Kushwaha and Vijendra Prasad Yadav have already filed their nominations from the Mahnar and Supaul seats. Vijay Kumar Chaudhary is expected to file his nomination papers from Sarairanjan on Thursday. Under the seat-sharing pact within NDA, BJP and JD(U) will contest 101 seats each, LJP(RV) 29, HAM and RLM six seats each. Bihar assembly elections will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11. The counting of votes will take place on November 14. The total number of voters stands at 7.42 crore, down from 7.89 crore in June this year. BJP conspiring to impose President's rule in Bihar after assembly elections, claims RJD leader Tejashwi
Congress starts announcing Bihar poll candidates amid seat-sharing deadlock
The Congress party late Wednesday night unilaterally began announcing its candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, even as negotiations with its key Mahagathbandhan ally, the RJD, remain unresolved. The party's Bihar unit began revealing its nominees via its official X handle, bypassing a traditional official list and instead posting photos of candidates receiving their nomination certificates. The initial list announced on social media includes several prominent and key constituency candidates: Rajesh Ram, the Bihar Congress state president, has been fielded from the Kutumba assembly constituency. Shashi Shekhar Singh is set to contest from the Wazirganj seat. Kaushlendra Kumar, alias Chhote Mukhiya, was named the INDIA bloc candidate for Nalanda. The party fielded Trishuldhari Singh from Barbeegha and Pratima Das from Rajapakad. Bihar Youth Congress state president Prakash Garib Das will contest from Bachhwada. Other notable candidates include Vijendra Chaudhary (Muzaffarpur), Om Parkash Garg (Gopalganj), Amita Bhushan (Begusarai), and Anand Shekhar Singh (Aurangabad). The Congress leadership is currently locked in talks with the RJD-led alliance partners, having previously insisted on a higher number of seats (reportedly aiming for over 60) than the RJD has been willing to allocate. The development comes as RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav filed his nomination from Raghopur assembly seat on Wednesday. The last date for filing nominations for the first phase of polls is October 17, while that for the second phase is October 20. State Congress President Rajesh Ram, after receiving his certificate, publicly thanked the party leadership for fielding him from Kutumba. , , pic.twitter.com/KudMFQLnhv Rajesh Ram (@rajeshkrinc) October 15, 2025
Congress starts announcing candidates for Bihar polls before finalising seat-sharing deal
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Wednesday night started announcing its candidates for the Bihar Assembly elections even before finalising the seat-sharing arrangement with its Mahagathbandhan allies. According to the announcement being made by the X handle of the party's Bihar unit, its state president Rajesh Ram is contesting from the Kutumba assembly constituency. The party started announcing the names of candidates on X without releasing an official list of nominees. Along with the announcements, it posted photos of nominees being handed over party nomination certificates. The Congress leadership is in talks with its alliance partners, including the RJD, but the seat-sharing arrangement has neither been finalised nor announced. The development comes as RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav filed his nomination from Raghopur assembly seat on Wednesday. The last date for filing nominations for the first phase of polls is October 17, while that for the second phase is October 20. Rajesh Ram thanked the Congress leadership for fielding him from the Kutumba seat. The Bihar Congress congratulated Ram and others for their nomination. - INDIA B. K. Ravi ! INDIA pic.twitter.com/PUq2msnIL2 Bihar Congress (@INCBihar) October 15, 2025 According to the announcements, Shashi Shekhar Singh will contest the election from the Wazjirganj seat. Kaushlendra Kumar, alias Chhote Mukhiya, will be the INDIA bloc candidate from the Nalanda seat. From the Barbeegha seat, the party fielded Trishuldhari Singh and Pratima Das from the Rajapakad seat. Shashi Bhushan Rai, alias Gappu Rai, has been fielded by the Congress from the Govindganj seat, while Vijendra Chaudhary will contest the Muzaffarpur seat. Om Parkash Garg will contest the Gopalganj seat, and Jitendra Singh from the Amarpur assembly seat. Amita Bhushan has been fielded by the Congress from the Begusarai seat, while Lallan Kumar will contest the Sultanganj seat. In the Rosda assembly constituency, the Congress has fielded B K Ravi as INDIA block candidate. Bihar Youth Congress state president Prakash Garib Das will contest the Bachhwada seat, while Anand Shekhar Singh will be the Congress candidate from the Aurangabad assembly seat. Bihar assembly polls are slated in two phases on November 6 and 11, and the counting of votes will take place on November 14.
Bihar polls: BJP releases second list of 12 candidates, fields singer Maithili Thakur from Alinagar
NEW DELHI: The BJP on Wednesday released its second list of 12 candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls, fielding singer Maithili Thakur from Alinagar seat and former IPS officer Anand Mishra from Buxar. According to the list, Ram Chandra Prasad will contest from Hayaghat seat, while Chhoti Kumari and Rakesh Ojha from Chhapra and Shahpur, respectively. Birendra Kumar and Mahesh Paswan will fight the polls from Rosera and Agiaon seats, reserved for the Scheduled Castes. According to the list, Ranjan Kumar will contest from Muzaffarpur and Subhash Singh from Gopalganj seat. Elections to the 243-member assembly will be held in two phases, on November 6 and 11. The votes will be counted on November 14. Feeling deceived by BJP, NDA ally SBSP names 48 candidates for first phase of Bihar polls
PM Modi to address over 10 rallies in Bihar as NDA gears up for triangular contest
NEW DELHI: With the Bihar Assembly elections poised to turn into a triangular battle owing to the entry of Prashant Kishors newly launched Jan Suraaj Party, the ruling National Democratic Alliance ( NDA ) is ramping up its campaign plans. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address more than 10 public rallies during the first two phases of polling, scheduled for November 6 and November 11, covering a total of 122 assembly constituencies, sources said. Sources said that PM Modis rallies will target areas where the NDAs influence is relatively weak but where the Prime Minister maintains a strong personal following. Each of Modis rallies is expected to cover 15 to 20 assembly segments and will be supported by live telecasts in remote regions. We think the PM will effectively address almost all key segments through these mega rallies. The final number is yet to be confirmed, but he is expected to address more than 10 rallies between the two phases, a senior BJP leader said. The NDAs campaign will also see a strong push from other top leaders. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is expected to hold between 30 and 35 rallies, each covering five to seven constituencies. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who holds significant sway among Rajput and upper-caste voters in the state, is likely to address over 25 rallies. Home Minister Amit Shah, widely regarded as the BJPs chief electoral strategist, will address at least 25 rallies. BJP national president JP Nadda, known for his longstanding involvement in Bihar politics, is slated to hold 20 to 25 solo rallies, apart from shared platforms with other leaders. In the 2020 Bihar elections, PM Modi had addressed 12 rallies across districts, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and East Champaran. This time, the number may rise, and roadshows in key cities are also under consideration. Ahead of his on-ground campaign, Prime Minister Modi will launch the NDAs poll drive on Wednesday by virtually addressing BJP booth-level workers under the partys 'Mera Booth, Sabse Majboot' initiative, urging them to ensure a decisive victory for the alliance.
Uncertainty grips NDA, INDIA bloc over seat-sharing as nomination process begins in Bihar
NEW DELHI: Although the nomination process for 121 seats in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections began on Friday, ahead of polling on November 6, both the JD(U)-led NDA and the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan are yet to finalise seat-sharing arrangements within their alliances and the announcement of candidate lists. The situation highlights how forming and managing pre-poll alliances in Bihar has become increasingly difficult, driven by shifting political equations and competing ambitions. Sources within the BJP indicate that the NDAs internal seat-sharing arrangement is likely to be finalised within a day or two, after which the party plans to release its first list of candidates. The JD(U), another key NDA ally, is also expected to announce its candidate list soon, according to party insiders. Meanwhile, Union Minister Chirag Paswans Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) is reportedly demanding 45 seats, while the NDA has offered between 20 and 22. As negotiations continued on Friday, BJP Bihar in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan arrived in Patna to finalise the seat-sharing arrangement and prepare a fresh list of candidates. Nomination begins for first phase of Bihar polls; seat-sharing talks intensify in NDA, INDIA bloc It is speculated that the NDA may soon reach an agreement, with the BJP likely to contest around 101102 seats, JD(U) 102103, LJP (RV) 2325, and LJP 2023, while both HAM and RLM may be allotted 7 seats each. Amid the ongoing uncertainty with the two main alliances, Prashant Kishors newly formed political outfit, Jan Suraaj, took the lead on Thursday by announcing a list of 51 candidates. In Delhi, senior Bihar BJP leader and MoS for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai met Chirag Paswan for the second consecutive day, saying that the talk moved in a positive direction. The ongoing confusion within both the ruling and opposition camps is being linked to rising regional political aspirations, particularly among smaller parties that depend heavily on caste-based support. Local political analysts say these ambitions continue to complicate alliance politics in Bihar. The first phase of polling will cover key districts including Patna, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur.
Nomination begins for first phase of Bihar polls; seat-sharing talks intensify in NDA, INDIA bloc
PATNA: Filing of nomination papers began on Friday for the elections to 121 seats in the first phase of the Bihar assembly polls, officials said. The first round of the elections will be held on November 6. Candidates can file their nomination papers til October 17, and the scrutiny of such documents will be held on the next day, according to a notification. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is October 20 for the first phase of the assembly polls. Patna, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur districts will go for polls in the first phase. The second and final phase of the poll will take place on November 11 in 122 assembly seats. The counting of votes will take place on November 14. The ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc have not declared their list of candidates so far. Constituents of the NDA and the INDIA bloc are grappling with differences over seat-sharing, with smaller allies in both camps jostling for more seats. However, Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj party declared a list of 51 candidates on Thursday. Amid growing unease in the ruling NDA over the seat sharing, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reached Patna on Friday and will hold meetings with senior party leaders. Sources in the BJP said that the seat-sharing arrangements within the NDA will be finalised in a day or two, and the party will release its first list of candidates soon after that. Bihar polls: Left parties smoothen seat-sharing deal with RJD, Congress The JD(U), another alliance partner of the NDA, is also expected to announce its list of candidates very soon, party sources said. According to sources in the NDA, the allies - JD (U) and BJP - are likely to contest 102 and 101 seats, respectively. Union minister Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), which had earlier settled for around 20-22 seats, is now asking for 45 segments, they said. In the opposition bloc, sources said the RJD is likely to contest 135-140 seats. The party has offered the Congress 50-52 seats, lower than the party's demand for 70 assembly segments. Sources in the RJD said a meeting of senior party leaders will take place in Patna later in the day to finalise the list of its candidates. In the 2020 assembly polls, the Congress had fought 70 seats but won only 19. The other big constituent of the INDIA bloc, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, also appeared unhappy with the reportedly 20-25 seats being offered to it. Five years ago, the CPI (ML) Liberation won 12 of the 19 seats it contested, and is reportedly demanding 40 this time. Tejashwi makes mega poll promise: Law to ensure one government job for every family in Bihar
