Bihar Politics

By: Shahnawaz Saif 

Bihar Politics 2025: Realignments, Rising Voices, and the Road Ahead

Bihar’s political landscape has always been dynamic, but 2025 brings a renewed intensity. With shifting alliances, bold policy moves, and revived regional demands, the state is witnessing a political transformation that could shape its future for years to come.

Nitish Kumar’s Political Pivot: Back with the NDA

In a dramatic twist early last year, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar walked out of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) — which included RJD, Congress, and Left parties — and rejoined the BJP-led NDA. This move marked his ninth term as CM and sent shockwaves through Bihar's political corridors.

Kumar cited a breakdown in coordination and vision within the Grand Alliance as key reasons for his exit. His decision was as much about governance as it was about setting the stage for the 2025 assembly elections.

Power-Sharing and Cabinet Reshuffles

The new NDA government saw a strategic power-sharing deal. BJP leaders Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha were appointed Deputy Chief Ministers. In March 2024, a major cabinet expansion took place, with 21 new ministers sworn in, followed by another reshuffle in 2025 bringing in 7 more BJP MLAs. The BJP’s deepening roots in Bihar governance are clear — and calculated.

Samrat Choudhary, also the Finance Minister, unveiled a ₹2.79 lakh crore budget aimed at job creation, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes. This budget was seen as a direct pitch to Bihar’s youth and rural voters.

The Opposition: Rebuilding from the Rubble

With Nitish Kumar’s departure, the Mahagathbandhan was left scrambling. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav is working to revive the alliance’s energy, but without JD(U), the bloc has lost significant leverage.

The Congress remains a junior player, and the Left parties are marginal. The INDIA alliance — a broader anti-BJP national front — is active in Bihar but faces coordination issues without JD(U)’s backing.

Caste Census: A Game-Changing Factor

One of the hottest topics in Bihar politics right now is the caste census. After sustained pressure from Bihar and other states, the Centre agreed to include caste data in the upcoming national census.

Why does it matter? Because caste identity continues to be a major factor in Bihar’s elections — influencing candidate selection, campaign messaging, and policy promises. Parties are already tailoring their outreach to OBCs, EBCs, and Dalit communities.

The Mithila Statehood Demand: A New Regional Voice

An increasingly vocal movement is calling for a separate Mithila state — carved out of the Maithili-speaking regions of north Bihar. Advocates argue that Mithila has been neglected in development and cultural recognition.

While not a mainstream issue yet, the Mithila movement has been gaining traction. Its presence may influence voter sentiment in specific districts like Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Saharsa.

What to Expect in the 2025 Assembly Elections

The upcoming elections will be a test of alliance strength, leadership credibility, and policy delivery. Key issues that will likely dominate the campaigns include:

Unemployment and jobs

Education and healthcare

Caste representation and social justice

Infrastructure and rural development

Regional aspirations like Mithila statehood

The NDA seems to have an upper hand for now, with a stable alliance and administrative control. But anti-incumbency, internal dissent, and a resurgent opposition could shift the tide.

Final Thoughts

Bihar 2025 is not just about who wins or loses — it’s about how politics is evolving in the heartland. The balance between national parties and regional voices, governance and social justice, tradition and transformation, will define the next chapter of Bihar’s journey.

As the election dates near, all eyes will be on this politically vibrant state. One thing is certain: Bihar never fails to surprise.