Pana: As the Bihar Assembly elections approach in seven months, political activity in the state is intensifying. With Ramadan underway, political parties are making concerted efforts to appeal to Muslim voters, while Muslim organizations are also voicing their stance. Political parties are using Iftar gatherings to strengthen their outreach, while Muslim organizations are testing the commitment of politicians by opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill. In this race to secure Muslim votes, Lalu Prasad Yadav appears to have taken the lead, leaving Nitish Kumar trailing behind. But is Prashant Kishor still a roadblock in Lalu’s path?
Muslim Community’s Opposition to the Waqf Amendment Bill
The Muslim community has expressed strong opposition to the Waqf Amendment Bill, leading to widespread protests on the streets and debates in legislative assemblies. Several political parties have extended their support to the Muslim organizations opposing the bill. By boycotting the Iftar parties hosted by NDA allies JD(U) and LJP, and instead attending Lalu Yadav’s Iftar gathering, Muslim organizations have sent a clear political message. Lalu Yadav further solidified his position by actively participating in protests against the bill, reinforcing his stand on Muslim issues. The key question remains: Has Lalu successfully distanced Nitish Kumar from the Muslim electorate?
The Power of Muslim Votes in Bihar
Muslims make up approximately 17.7% of Bihar’s population. Out of the state’s 243 Assembly seats, 47 constituencies have a decisive Muslim voter base, with their population ranging between 20% and 40%. Eleven of these constituencies have a Muslim population exceeding 40%, while seven have more than 30%. Additionally, 29 constituencies have a Muslim electorate between 20% and 30%. Given these numbers, the Muslim community holds significant political sway in Bihar, capable of shaping electoral outcomes.
Recognizing this influence, not only Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar but also leaders like Chirag Paswan, Asaduddin Owaisi, and Prashant Kishor are strategizing to secure Muslim votes. Political figures are hosting Iftar parties in an attempt to bolster their appeal ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections. While Lalu Yadav seems to have outpaced his rivals, the presence of Owaisi and Kishor adds a layer of competition.
Lalu Yadav Leading the Race for Muslim Votes
RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav appears to be ahead in the battle for Muslim votes. His Iftar gathering witnessed the participation of prominent Muslim organizations, and Lalu was seen fully embracing the cultural and religious essence of the event. His Iftar was notably more successful than those of other political parties. Moreover, Lalu Yadav was actively involved in protests against the Waqf Bill, marching alongside the Muslim community.
In a significant protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill in Patna, organized by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and other Muslim organizations, several senior RJD leaders, including Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and Abdul Bari Siddiqui, took part. Addressing the gathering, Tejashwi Yadav declared his unwavering support for the Muslim community, stating, “I am proud that I have Lalu Ji’s blood in me.” Highlighting Lalu’s commitment despite his health struggles, Tejashwi noted, “Despite undergoing kidney and heart surgeries, Lalu Ji is here to stand with you.” This emotional appeal seemed to resonate with the Muslim community.
While RJD leaders were demanding the bill’s withdrawal in the Assembly, Lalu and Tejashwi were out on the streets protesting against it. Their strong stance appears to have garnered appreciation from the Muslim electorate.
With Lalu Yadav actively championing Muslim causes, the big question remains: Has Nitish Kumar lost his grip on the Muslim vote bank, or does he have a counter-strategy in the works?
