Bihar Assembly Elections 2023: Battle Between NDA and Mahagathbandhan in First Phase of Polling

The central themes of this electoral contest are both urgent and multifaceted.

New Delhi:

What are the primary issues and prominent campaigners for Bihar's first phase of assembly elections scheduled for November 6? Previously, the Mahagathbandhan enjoyed an advantage in regions south of the Ganga. Will the NDA's intensive campaign strategy overcome the Mahagathbandhan this time?

On November 6, the initial phase of assembly polls will commence across 121 constituencies that embody significant political history and social dynamics.

In this democratic landscape, where each vote reflects citizens' hopes and concerns, a contest unfolds with implications extending far beyond regional boundaries.

During the 2020 elections, the Mahagathbandhan - comprising the Rashtriya Janata Dal, Left parties, and Congress - established a strong presence in this region, claiming 63 of 121 seats.

The BJP and Janata Dal (United) coalition secured 55 seats. This historical context suggests the Mahagathbandhan enters the competition with a fundamental advantage, strengthened by previous successes in South and Central Bihar.

PM Modi's Remarkable Road Show in Patna

As campaigning intensifies, two figures emerge as the principal architects of their respective narratives: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi.

PM Modi's recent Patna roadshow - an impressive demonstration of political influence - attracted thousands of women lining the streets, demonstrating his enduring appeal.

Accompanied by JD(U) leader Lalan Singh, his presence, though affected by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's absence, reinforces the NDA's dedication to the region.

The synergy between PM Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar becomes evident when observing how women find both septuagenarian leaders appealing.

Patna's streets transform into a vibrant canvas displaying citizens' hopes for change and appreciation for incumbents despite Nitish Kumar's 20 years and PM Modi's 11 years in power.

The apparent anti-incumbency sentiment and frustration among youth (primarily the unemployed or those forced to migrate) are often entangled in political promises of government employment.

Rahul Gandhi: From "Vote Chori" Slogan to Swimming with Fishermen

Conversely, Rahul Gandhi's approach has been both energetic and inconsistent. His 16-day Voter Adhikar rally, conducted with RJD and CPI-ML partners, aimed to reinvigorate voter engagement.

However, his subsequent absence from campaigning for nearly two months undermined these efforts.

The "Vote Chori" slogan resonates with voters' frustrations, yet Gandhi's absence raises questions about the Opposition's strategic coherence and vigor.

Rahul Gandhi attempted to compensate by swimming in a pond with VIP leader Mukesh Saini and members of the Mallah fishing community elsewhere in Bihar.

This created a compelling photo opportunity that gained traction on social media. It may also attract additional votes in the second polling phase. Nishads and Mallahs represent significant communities in Mithilanchal areas like Darbhanga, Madhubani, and the Kosi belt.

Jobs, Migration, Corruption, Education Decline Remain Top Priorities

The central issues in this electoral battle are both pressing and complex. Unemployment, outmigration, corruption, and deteriorating education and healthcare dominate discussions.

In a state where many seek opportunities elsewhere, the promise of employment represents more than campaign rhetoric - it's a lifeline.

Tejashwi Yadav's commitment to provide one government job per household - potentially creating 1.3 crore jobs over five years - resonates deeply. It embodies hope and ambition, contrasting with the NDA manifesto promising 1 crore government jobs and aiming to create 1 crore women lakhpatis.

Jan Suraj Party's Prashant Kishor adds another dimension to this complex narrative, highlighting concerns about corruption and declining essential services.

His focus on jobs, education, and health aligns with voters' urgent needs, yet his independent position raises questions about potential fragmentation of Opposition votes.

As the decisive day approaches, Bihar's political landscape remains a battleground of ideologies and aspirations. The Mahagathbandhan, with its historical advantage and compelling promises, appears positioned to capitalize on voters' desire for change.

However, PM Modi's formidable presence and the NDA's organized machinery cannot be underestimated.

Nitish Kumar benefits from 20 years of incumbency, with sympathy votes from women concerned about his health and support from thousands who have benefited from his welfare initiatives and prohibition policies.

Bihar's political pulse beats with uncertainty, and as votes are cast, the outcome will reflect not merely a choice between parties but a deeper yearning for a better future.

While the people (Jan) may favor Mahagathbandhan, resources (Tantra) clearly belong to the NDA.

In this intricate democratic process, the question remains: who will triumph in this pivotal moment of Bihar's political saga? The NDA or the Mahagathbandhan? Or will Prashant Kishor emerge as the unexpected X-factor capable of disrupting expectations?

The answer lies not only in statistics but in narratives that resonate with citizens' hearts and minds as they shape their state's trajectory.

In summary, Bihar's democratic battle (Jantantra) features a significant portion of citizens (Jan) divided among challengers. However, the NDA monopolizes resources (Tantra), enabling an impressive campaign featuring Union ministers and BJP chief ministers from over a dozen states.

Unless the Mahagathbandhan enhances its campaign, improves coordination among allies (still struggling with approximately 12 "friendly fights"), and achieves substantial vote transfers among coalition partners, they risk losing their 2020 advantage.