Ashok Gehlot Meets Tejashwi Yadav: Congress and RJD Aim to Resolve 'Friendly Fights' in Bihar Election

RJD and Congress are working to resolve differences and minimize friendly contests in upcoming Bihar elections

Patna:

As 'friendly fights' between allies pose a threat to the Mahagathbandhan's electoral chances in the Bihar election, Congress veteran Ashok Gehlot has been dispatched to Patna to address the stalemate. Gehlot is scheduled to meet with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav to resolve disagreements between the coalition partners. Mahagathbandhan leaders are expected to demonstrate unity, and sources indicate the Congress may finally recognize Tejashwi as the alliance's Chief Ministerial candidate.

Gehlot, a seasoned Congress politician and former Rajasthan Chief Minister, along with former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, serves as the party's senior election observer for Bihar. Before departing for Bihar, Gehlot told ANI that all confusion would soon be resolved. "There might be friendly contests in some constituencies. The process is advancing. We will hold a press conference to clarify the situation. All confusion will be cleared. The Mahagathbandhan will mount a strong electoral challenge," he stated.

With both Congress and RJD remaining firm during seat-sharing negotiations, several Assembly constituencies in Bihar may witness friendly fights—meaning Mahagathbandhan candidates competing against each other. This could split opposition votes, ultimately advantaging NDA candidates.

Gehlot has now arrived in Patna to ensure such contests are minimized. Once differences are resolved, several candidates may withdraw their nominations.

According to sources, the Mahagathbandhan partners may soon address the media to demonstrate unity. The Congress may also endorse Tejashwi as the alliance's Chief Ministerial candidate. The Grand Old Party has thus far refrained from naming Tejashwi as the Chief Ministerial face, apparently using this as leverage during seat-sharing discussions. In a media interaction today, Tejashwi stated there is "no dispute" and added, "You will get all the answers tomorrow."

Bihar will vote on November 6 and 11, with results to be announced on November 14. The election pits the ruling NDA coalition—comprising BJP, JDU, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), and Rashtriya Lok Morcha—against the opposition Mahagathbandhan alliance of RJD, Congress, Left parties, and Vikasheel Insaan Party. Poll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj has established a third front in this election.