Bihar Election Rift Widens, Congress and RJD Clash Over Seat Sharing in Key Battlegrounds

National News: The Bihar Assembly election has taken a dramatic turn as the opposition Mahagathbandhan shows clear signs of internal rift. Congress and RJD, despite being allies, have fielded their own candidates against each other in multiple constituencies. The dispute, simmering for weeks, has now burst into the open with candidates filing nominations separately. Vaishali and Lalganj seats have become the flashpoints where both parties are determined to test their strength against each other.

Vaishali sees direct contest

In Vaishali, the situation has turned embarrassing for the alliance. Congress candidate Sanjeev Kumar filed his nomination on November 15, while two days later RJD’s Ajay Kushwaha also entered the fray. Both claim legitimate representation of the alliance, leaving workers confused about whom to campaign for. Leaders from both sides are blaming each other for breaking the unity formula. Observers say this battle could heavily split opposition votes in the constituency.

Lalganj another battleground seat

The Lalganj seat has added more heat to the dispute. RJD has fielded Shivani Shukla, daughter of strongman leader Munna Shukla, while Congress has nominated Aditya Kumar Raja. At his nomination, MP Pappu Yadav was also present, signaling larger political equations at play. The fight between RJD and Congress here has shocked alliance supporters, as both parties were expected to compromise. Instead, their decision has exposed cracks in the opposition front.

More clashes across constituencies

The rift is not limited to Vaishali and Lalganj. In Darbhanga’s Gaura Bauram seat, RJD’s Afzal Ali Khan faces VIP’s Santosh Sahni, even though both are part of the alliance. In Rosera, Congress candidate V.K. Ravi is competing against CPI’s Laxman Paswan, another alliance partner. Such clashes have raised serious questions about coordination within Mahagathbandhan. Analysts say if such seat conflicts continue, it will reduce the alliance’s chances of defeating the NDA in Bihar.

Longstanding ticket dispute emerges

Sources confirm that the fight over ticket distribution has been simmering for months. Despite repeated talks, no final consensus could be reached between Congress and RJD. Congress candidate Sanjeev Kumar has made it clear that he will contest under all circumstances and refuse any compromise. Similarly, RJD leaders have stood firm on their choices. This stubbornness from both sides has created visible fractures in the alliance structure.

Impact on grassroots workers

For party workers at the ground level, the confusion is deepening. In several constituencies, Congress and RJD cadres are uncertain whom to support. Some are worried that campaigning against their own alliance partners may hurt long-term relationships. Others believe the leadership has failed to provide clarity, leaving them demoralized. Political analysts say this disunity will make it easier for NDA candidates to capitalize on opposition divisions.

Analysts predict heavy losses

Experts believe the lack of coordination and internal ambitions of regional leaders have weakened the Mahagathbandhan. The alliance was formed to present a united front against BJP and NDA, but these clashes show the absence of a common strategy. If Congress and RJD continue to fight each other on multiple seats, it could severely damage their electoral prospects. The ongoing disputes could ultimately hand over several constituencies to the ruling NDA without much effort.