Alliance In Motion: NDA Finalises Seat-Sharing Formula For Bihar Polls Amid Chirag Paswan Rift

With the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has reportedly finalised its seat-sharing arrangement after a series of intense negotiations. The talks, which involved senior leaders from BJP, JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas), and other allies, were marked by internal friction—particularly with Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party—over seat allocation and recognition.

Key Developments From The Negotiations  
- Chirag Paswan is likely to contest 25–26 seats under the NDA banner, with assurances of representation in both state and central government roles  
- The seat-sharing formula was shaped during marathon meetings in New Delhi, attended by BJP leaders including Dharmendra Pradhan and Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary  
- Paswan’s “Bihar First, Bihari First” agenda was reportedly discussed and acknowledged during the talks  
- Despite consensus among major allies, leaders from Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) have expressed dissatisfaction over their seat allotments  
- The formal announcement of the seat-sharing agreement is expected later today, ahead of the nomination deadline for Phase 1

Political Context  
- The NDA aims to present a united front against the INDIA bloc, which includes RJD, Congress, and Left parties  
- The alliance is banking on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s governance record to retain power  
- Internal rifts, however, could impact campaign coordination and voter messaging in key constituencies

Electoral Timeline  
- Voting will take place in two phases: November 6 and November 11  
- Results will be declared on November 14  
- The Election Commission has urged parties to adhere to the Model Code of Conduct and ensure peaceful campaigning

Outlook  
- Analysts believe the NDA’s ability to manage internal dissent will be crucial to its electoral performance  
- Chirag Paswan’s inclusion and visibility may help consolidate Dalit and youth votes, especially in urban and semi-urban pockets  
- The final seat-sharing announcement will set the tone for candidate declarations and campaign strategy across Bihar

Sources: ABP News, India TV News, The Daily Jagran