Cracks Emerge in Bihar's INDIA Bloc: CPI(ML) Rejects RJD's Seat-Sharing Offer for 2025 Assembly Polls

Tension is brewing within Bihar's INDIA bloc as a crucial ally, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, has openly rejected the Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) preliminary seat-sharing proposal for the upcoming 2025 Assembly elections. This development signals significant internal friction and raises concerns about the unity of the grand alliance just ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Sources indicate that the RJD, the dominant force within the Mahagathbandhan, had proposed a 'respectable' number of seats for CPI(ML) Liberation.

However, the Left party, a key constituent with a significant grassroots presence, deemed the offer insufficient and 'unacceptable.' CPI(ML) Liberation leaders are reportedly firm on their demand for a more substantial share, pushing for at least 15 to 20 seats, citing their strong performance in the 2020 Assembly elections where they secured 12 seats out of the 19 they contested.

The CPI(ML) Liberation's stance is particularly critical because their 12 MLAs provide a vital numerical strength to the current Mahagathbandhan government, which also includes the JD(U), Congress, and other Left parties.

Losing their cooperation, or even having them contest independently, could severely jeopardize the bloc's prospects against the formidable NDA alliance in the state.

This internal disagreement mirrors broader challenges faced by the INDIA bloc nationally, as disparate regional parties struggle to find common ground on seat distribution.

In Bihar, the RJD, as the largest party, is attempting to assert its leadership, but smaller yet electorally significant allies like CPI(ML) Liberation are equally determined to protect their political space and influence.

Party sources from CPI(ML) Liberation emphasized that their primary objective is to defeat the BJP and they are committed to the INDIA bloc's larger goal.

However, they also underlined the importance of a 'dignified and equitable' seat-sharing formula that reflects their ground realities and electoral strength. They argue that their cadre and voter base are crucial for mobilizing support, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.

The ongoing negotiations are not just about the 2025 Assembly polls but also have direct implications for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

A failure to resolve these internal disputes amicably could lead to a fragmented opposition vote, ultimately benefiting the ruling NDA. Analysts suggest that the INDIA bloc leadership, particularly from the Congress and JD(U), will need to intervene swiftly to mediate and foster a consensus before these cracks widen further and undermine the alliance's electoral machinery in a pivotal state like Bihar.