The Muslim-majority constituency sees a clash of titans between AIMIM, JDU-BJP, and Congress candidates. Concerns over the division of Muslim votes loom large.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — The political landscape of Kishanganj in Bihar witnesses an intense three-way battle at the hustings. Prominent contenders — Akhtarul Iman of the AIMIM, Dr. Muhammad Irshad Alam Qadri representing the JDU-BJP alliance, and Javed Alam from the Congress — are vying for supremacy in this Muslim-majority constituency. The stakes are high and the outcome of this contest could significantly influence the political trajectory of the region.
Kishanganj, a district renowned for its tea plantations sprawling across approximately 10,000 hectares, also boasts substantial cultivation of bananas and pineapples. The significance of this constituency transcends its agricultural prowess, as it has historically been a bastion of opposition parties, particularly the Congress. Despite the Modi wave sweeping across the nation in previous elections, Congress emerged victorious in Kishanganj in 2009, 2014, and 2019.
The political landscape of Kishanganj is nuanced, with AIMIM gaining traction in recent years. Akhtarul Iman, also the state president of the party, has established a strong foothold in the region by frequently contesting elections from here. However, the joint candidacy of Dr. Qadri, backed by JDU and BJP, adds a new dimension to the electoral equation. Meanwhile, Javed Alam of the Congress aims to reclaim the seat amidst growing discontent among the electorate.
Issues at the Forefront
The electoral discourse in Kishanganj revolves around pressing issues such as Bangladeshi immigrants and the need for comprehensive development initiatives. The BJP has consistently raised concerns about illegal immigration from Bangladesh, resonating with a significant section of the electorate. Additionally, development deficits in infrastructure, education, and healthcare feature prominently in candidates’ agendas as they seek to garner the support of the electorate.
Amidst the intense political fervour, voter sentiments remain divided. While Akhtarul Iman enjoys widespread popularity among certain sections of the electorate, concerns about the division of Muslim votes loom large. Many voters fear that splitting their support among the three Muslim candidates could inadvertently benefit the JDU-BJP alliance. The electorate grapples with the dilemma of choosing between their preferred candidate and strategic voting to prevent the fragmentation of votes.
As the election campaign gains momentum, candidates intensify their efforts to connect with voters and address their concerns. Door-to-door canvassing, public rallies, and social media outreach form integral components of their campaign strategies. Each candidate endeavours to present a compelling vision for the development and welfare of Kishanganj, appealing to the aspirations of the electorate.
With the election fervour reaching its zenith, the political landscape of Kishanganj stands at a crossroads. The outcome of this fiercely contested election could have far-reaching implications for the region’s socio-political dynamics. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the fate of Kishanganj hangs in the balance, awaiting a decisive verdict from its discerning electorate.
