BJP moves to pacify Manjhi and Kushwaha as NDA faces internal rift over seat-sharing deal

National News: Seat-sharing within the NDA has created friction among smaller partners. Leaders Jitan Ram Manjhi of Hindustani Awam Morcha and Upendra Kushwaha of Rashtriya Lok Morcha openly voiced discontent. Sources revealed that both leaders felt sidelined after receiving only six seats each under the agreed formula. Their protests have unsettled BJP strategists who want a united front before polls. Internal disputes now threaten to overshadow the NDA’s election campaign in Bihar.

BJP offers compromise formula to allies

In response, BJP leaders stepped in with a compromise offer. They assured both Manjhi and Kushwaha one extra seat each, raising their share to seven seats apiece. Negotiations took place in Delhi and Patna, where the BJP leadership sought to calm tensions. Discussions also included possible adjustments on key constituencies like Sherghati, Bodh Gaya, and Goh. Party insiders say this formula will be finalized after consultation with all allies.

Background of NDA seat formula

The NDA had announced its seat-sharing deal on 12 October. Under the plan, BJP and JD(U) received 101 seats each, Chirag Paswan’s LJP (RV) got 29 seats, while HAM and RLM were allotted six each. Manjhi had originally demanded 15 seats and Kushwaha had claimed 24, far more than they were offered. Their reduced numbers created frustration among their supporters, weakening morale on the ground. BJP now seeks to avoid rebellion by offering adjustments.

Reactions from Manjhi and Kushwaha

Manjhi posted on X that receiving fewer seats hurt the morale of his workers, but he promised to stay with the NDA for Bihar’s larger interest. He emphasized that while his party accepted disappointment, they would not push Bihar back into what he called “jungle raj.” Meanwhile, Kushwaha wrote that seat allocation had been resolved amicably and discussions on candidate placement were entering the final stage. Both leaders stressed loyalty to NDA leadership despite dissatisfaction.

Importance of unity for NDA

With Bihar’s 243-seat assembly going to polls in two phases on 6 and 11 November, unity among NDA partners is crucial. Results will be announced on 14 November. Analysts say BJP cannot afford internal rebellion with opposition parties aggressively campaigning. Even minor rifts could damage NDA’s chances in closely contested constituencies. That is why BJP is bending to accommodate Manjhi and Kushwaha. Their support is considered vital to retain NDA’s base in Bihar.

Opposition watches developments closely

Opposition parties are closely following these developments, hoping to exploit NDA’s internal rift. RJD and Congress leaders argue that BJP’s dominance leaves smaller allies dissatisfied. They say Manjhi and Kushwaha’s complaints reflect deeper frustration within the alliance. Opposition strategists plan to highlight these cracks during campaigning. If NDA fails to project unity, it could face tough competition in the upcoming polls, especially in regions where caste alliances play a crucial role.

BJP banks on Modi-Nitish factor

Despite challenges, NDA leaders continue to project confidence. Supporters of Manjhi and Kushwaha were reassured with slogans praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Both leaders emphasized that NDA would fight as one team and ensure victory in Bihar. BJP hopes Modi’s popularity and Nitish’s administrative image will overshadow internal discontent. However, the final seat-sharing adjustments will determine whether allies truly stand united or only maintain an uneasy truce.