The candidate overhaul is thus a strategic effort by JD(U) to strengthen its position amid stiff competition from both the Mahagathbandhan and within the NDA: Reports
NEW DELHI: To counter two decades of anti-incumbency, the JD(U) is considering replacing approximately 20–25 per cent of its candidates, including some sitting MLAs, for the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for October-November this year.
Party strategists are assessing the performance and popularity of current MLAs and other potential nominees. “Those deemed unpopular or unlikely to win may be denied tickets and replaced with new faces in select constituencies,” insiders said. The party is weighing the pros and cons of this move before finalising its candidate list.
As a major NDA constituent, JD(U) contested 115 seats in 2020 but won only 43, while the BJP secured 74 of the 110 seats it contested. This time, JD(U) is keen to introduce younger candidates to counter the appeal of RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav and Jan Suraj Party chief Prashant Kishor among first-time voters.
Drawing on fresh survey data and grassroots feedback, strategists aim to field the strongest possible contenders in each constituency to maximise their chances of victory. “Our internal survey highlighted the low popularity of certain candidates, prompting plans to introduce new and dynamic faces,” the sources added.
Political analysts note that refreshing the candidate slate is a common tactic to revitalise electoral fortunes. In 2020, the BJP emerged as the NDA’s largest party in Bihar with 74 seats, yet honoured its pre-election commitment by supporting Nitish Kumar of the JD(U) as Chief Minister, an arrangement that underscored JD(U)’s weakened poll performance.
With the political landscape in flux, analysts warn that if JD(U) fails to improve its tally in 2025, the BJP may not be compelled to concede the chief ministership to its ally. The candidate overhaul is thus a strategic effort by JD(U) to strengthen its position amid stiff competition from both the Mahagathbandhan and within the NDA.
