With Muslims absent from the first lists of JDU, BJP, Hindustani Awam Morcha, and Lok Janshakti Party questions raised over the alliance’s approach towards Muslim voters
NEW DELHI/PATNA — The hustle and bustle of Bihar’s first phase of polling on November 6 is in full swing, but the political landscape is fraught with tension over seat-sharing within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The ruling alliance’s important ally, Upendra Kushwaha of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, openly expressed his displeasure over internal differences on Wednesday, though sources later claimed he had been “convinced” to maintain unity.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal-United (JDU) released its first list of 57 candidates. Notably, the list does not include a single Muslim leader, prompting criticism from political observers and raising questions about the party’s intentions. Some analysts describe this as a “political message,” suggesting that despite being part of the NDA, the JDU may be overlooking Muslim voters—a significant demographic in Bihar.
Attempts by Clarion India to seek clarity from JDU officials met with limited success. Calls to a national spokesperson, two state spokespersons, and two Muslim leaders resulted in only one response, with others refusing to comment. A party insider said, “More announcements are expected, and several tickets are yet to be given, so it may be premature to say Muslims have been completely ignored.”
However, the timing and composition of the first candidate list have raised concerns. The announced constituencies include some where votes will be cast in the second phase, leaving an impression that Muslim representation could have been considered earlier. Adding to the discontent, former JDU state minister Khurshid, also known as Feroze Ahmed, resigned from the party, expressing his frustration: “The chief minister has completely fallen into the clutches of the BJP.”
The exclusion of Muslims is not limited to the JDU. BJP, which announced 71 and later 12 candidates, included no Muslim names. Similarly, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) led by Jitan Ram Manjhi declared six candidates, and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) under Chirag Paswan announced 14 candidates—none of whom are Muslims.
Political analysts warn that this sidelining of Muslim leaders from NDA parties could alienate a key voter base. “Muslims in Bihar have long contributed to the state’s social and economic fabric. Ignoring them politically is both unwise and unjust,” said a local political commentator who wished to remain anonymous.
In contrast, the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) has yet to announce its complete seat distribution, even as party candidates have begun filing nominations. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav filed his nomination from the Raghopur Assembly constituency on Wednesday. While RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has assigned party symbols to several candidates, no official list has been released, though a list of 32 candidates is circulating on social media. RJD spokespersons have remained silent on the matter.
The current political scenario highlights a worrying trend of Muslim underrepresentation in Bihar’s ruling alliance, raising questions about inclusivity and fair representation. As the election process begins, all eyes remain on how parties will address the concerns of the state’s substantial Muslim population.
A resident of Patna, Mohammad Yusuf, expressed his concern: “We are an integral part of Bihar, yet our voices are being ignored in politics. It is disheartening to see no Muslim candidates in the NDA’s first list.”
Observers believe the issue of Muslim representation could influence voting patterns and sway public opinion, making inclusivity a critical factor for parties seeking long-term credibility in the state.
