The political fervor in Bihar is reaching a peak as the first phase of the Assembly elections concludes its nomination process. Over 1,250 candidates have officially filed their candidacies for the 121 seats scheduled for polling on November 6. As districts continue to report, this number is expected to climb even higher.
The atmosphere is distinctly divided: the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) projects a unified and confident front, preparing for a vigorous campaign. In stark contrast, the opposition INDIA bloc appears to be struggling with internal cohesion, facing disarray as critical decisions loom.
One of the most talked-about developments involves senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who recently criticized the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Shah publicly questioned the RJD’s decision to grant an Assembly election ticket to Osama Shahab. Osama is the son of the late Mohammad Shahabuddin, a figure widely known as a ‘don-turned-politician’ who wielded considerable influence in Siwan during the RJD’s 15-year tenure from 1990 to 2005. Osama Shahab is set to contest from the Raghunathpur Assembly constituency in Siwan district, where he will face off against Vikas Kumar Singh, also known as Jishu Singh, the candidate from the ruling Janata Dal (United).
Meanwhile, the electoral battle in Bihar is also getting a touch of glamour with popular Bhojpuri film stars and other artists joining the fray. This influx of celebrity presence is transforming the Assembly election into a star-studded political spectacle. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has strategically fielded actor Khesari Lal Yadav from Chhapra in Saran district, hoping to capitalize on his immense popularity. Not to be outdone, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated acclaimed folk singer Maithili Thakur as its candidate for Alinagar in Darbhanga district. Adding further star power, the BJP’s extensive list of 40 star campaigners includes other prominent Bhojpuri personalities such as Pawan Singh, Manoj Tiwari, Ravi Kishan, and Dinesh Lal Yadav ‘Nirahua’, emphasizing the significant role celebrity endorsements play in shaping voter sentiment.