The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation [CPI(ML)] has rejected RJD’s offer of 19 seats in the Bihar Mahagathbandhan for the upcoming state elections. The party is pushing for a larger share of seats, citing its strong performance in the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, where it had a better strike rate than both RJD and Congress.

CPI(ML) leaders have indicated that the initial demand of 40 seats reflected the party’s confidence in its electoral performance and grassroots strength. However, they have expressed a willingness to settle for a tally closer to 30 seats if negotiations progress favourably.

Historical Context and Performance

In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, CPI(ML) had a remarkable strike rate, winning a significant portion of the seats it contested. Party strategists argue that this demonstrates the party’s influence in key constituencies, particularly in regions where left-wing support is historically strong.

The party believes that the seat-sharing formula proposed by RJD does not adequately reflect its electoral strength and organizational capability, prompting the current stand-off in negotiations.

Negotiation Dynamics within Mahagathbandhan

The Mahagathbandhan alliance, comprising RJD, Congress, CPI(ML), and other parties, is preparing for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Negotiations over seat-sharing have been a critical aspect, with smaller parties like CPI(ML) seeking to maximize their influence in the alliance.

CPI(ML) has stressed that while it values the alliance framework, it is keeping all options open, signalling that it may explore alternative arrangements or contest independently if its seat demands are not met. This approach reflects the party’s strategy to leverage its strong voter base to gain maximum advantage in the upcoming elections.

Implications for Bihar Politics

The rejection of RJD’s offer indicates potential tensions within the Mahagathbandhan, which could impact campaign strategies and alliance cohesion. Political analysts suggest that if CPI(ML) manages to secure around 30 seats, it could emerge as a key player in the alliance, influencing candidate selection and campaign priorities.

Conversely, failure to reach an agreement may lead to splits or realignments, reshaping the electoral landscape in Bihar. The outcome of these negotiations is likely to affect both voter sentiment and the overall strength of the opposition alliance against the ruling parties.

CPI(ML)’s Strategic Position

CPI(ML) has maintained a calculated stance in the ongoing discussions, leveraging its grassroots presence and electoral credibility. Party leaders have emphasised that their decision-making will be guided by maximizing representation and effectiveness in constituencies where they have a realistic chance of winning.

This strategy underscores the importance of smaller parties in Bihar’s coalition politics, highlighting their potential to influence alliances and election outcomes despite contesting fewer seats than larger parties.

Conclusion

CPI(ML) has decisively rejected RJD’s 19-seat offer, signalling its intent to negotiate for a larger share in the Mahagathbandhan ahead of the Bihar elections. With a strong performance record in 2020, the party is positioning itself as a key stakeholder in the alliance while keeping all options open, including exploring alternatives if its demands are not met.

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