The move is seen as a strategic masterstroke by CM-face Tejashwi Yadav to broaden the alliance's social base. (Image: File)
The Bihar opposition Grand Alliance is completing a plan that, should it win the next assembly elections, calls for the appointment of three Deputy Chief Ministers from important communities. This is a daring political move. This plan, announced as seat-sharing talks near completion, is seen as a direct attempt to broaden its social base and present a unified face against the ruling NDA.
The proposed formula involves appointing one Deputy Chief Minister each from the Dalit, Muslim, and Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) communities. The alliance's power-sharing approach will be more inclusive thanks to this arrangement. It is exactly like the current NDA, which has two deputy chief ministers as well. The Grand Alliance's purposeful effort to seem united and show a commitment to social justice beyond its usual base of supporters includes this initiative.
While not yet formally declared by all partners, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav is the de-facto chief ministerial candidate of the Grand Alliance.This arrangement solidifies Tejashwi's standing as a two-time former deputy chief minister and a leader from a backward group. An RJD spokesperson stated that by contesting fewer seats than in 2020, the RJD is demonstrating flexibility to strengthen the coalition, making Tejashwi its "undisputed" face.
Also Read: ‘Reset and Repair’: US Lawmakers Urge Trump to Reverse Tariffs Straining India Ties
The seat-sharing arrangement is being tightly negotiated. According to alliance leaders, the RJD is expected to contest around 125 of Bihar's 243 seats, which is 19 fewer than it contested in the 2020 elections. The Congress party is likely to get 50-55 seats, while the Left parties are set to contest about 25 seats. The remaining seats will be distributed among smaller allies like the VIP, LJP, and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, finalizing a complex political agreement.
Insiders and political observers believe Tejashwi Yadav is employing a multifaceted approach. It seeks to reposition the RJD as a more multifaceted, inclusive platform rather than one that is only centered on Yadav politics. A spokesperson for the Congress linked the move to Rahul Gandhi's vision of "tempering dominance with inclusivity." For the alliance, it is a direct effort to win back the support of Dalits, EBCs, and minorities, who are crucial for achieving a majority in the closely divided state.
Rival parties have criticized and expressed concern over the statement. One opposition leader questioned its viability and referred to it as a scheme for "air castles". Another critic labeled it a "fake message" and warned that power-sharing on such a scale could lead to bureaucratic overlap and internal rivalry, potentially diluting the chief minister's authority. The plan is unconventional, as deputy CM appointments are typically made after an election victory, not before.
Bihar has a long history of deputy chief ministers, with ten politicians having held the post so far. The first, Anugrah Narayan Sinha, served for over 11 years. The role has seen tenures of varying lengths, from mass leaders like Karpoori Thakur to very brief stints lasting only a few days. The current NDA deputies have been in office for about 252 days. Historically, the position has served as a crucial balancing lever and a political olive branch to different social groups.
Disclaimer: This report is based on information from official statements and news agency reports.
