Tensions are flaring within Bihar’s ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as smaller allies cry foul over the recently announced seat-sharing formula for the upcoming 2025 Assembly elections. The deal, finalized after intense negotiations, allocates 101 seats each to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking a historic equal split between the coalition’s heavyweights. Meanwhile, Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) secures a robust 29 constituencies, leaving just six seats each for Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) and Upendra Kushwaha’s Rashtriya Lok Morcha in the 243-member Assembly.

The meager allocation has sparked open resentment. Manjhi, a Union Minister and prominent Dalit leader, didn’t hide his frustration, telling reporters on October 12, “We’ve accepted the high command’s decision, but giving us only six seats underestimates our strength. This could hurt the NDA’s chances.” He had lobbied for at least 15 seats to clinch the eight wins needed for his party’s official state recognition, a goal now at risk. Despite his ire, Manjhi returned to Patna without breaking ranks, signaling loyalty but warning of electoral consequences.

Kushwaha, a key OBC leader, took a more emotional tack in a late-night X post to his supporters. “I seek your forgiveness. The seats we got fall short of your expectations. I know this hurts aspiring candidates,” he wrote, adding, “In many homes, food might not have been cooked tonight. But please let the anger settle, and time will show if this was right or wrong.” His six constituencies mirror past allotments but dash hopes for a bigger slice, fueling discontent among his cadre.

Also Read: NDA’s Bihar Battle: BJP and JD(U) Split 101 Seats Each, Chirag Paswan’s LJP Claims 29

The equal BJP-JD(U) split has raised eyebrows, with opposition Congress seizing the moment to jab at Nitish Kumar. State Congress spokesperson Rajesh Rathor remarked, “For the first time, JD(U) isn’t contesting more seats than BJP. It’s clear the BJP is sidelining Nitish, and soon it may swallow JD(U) whole.” The opposition smells blood, hoping to exploit the NDA’s internal rifts as they finalize their own seat-sharing plans.

The discord threatens the NDA’s unity at a critical juncture. Bihar’s elections, set for November-December, hinge on delicate caste alliances, with Manjhi and Kushwaha’s communities wielding influence in key constituencies. Their frustration could sway voters, especially with new players like Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj contesting all 243 seats on an anti-establishment wave. As the NDA pushes its “Bihar First” campaign, the simmering anger among smaller allies looms as a potential spoiler. Can the coalition mend fences, or will these cracks fracture its bid for another term? The battle for Bihar just got messier.

Also Read: Arvind Rajbhar Warns BJP: SBSP Will Contest Alone if Denied Seats