HighLights
  1. Two independent MLCs join BJP, shifting Bihar political dynamics.
  2. Rahul Raj, Banshidhar Brijwasi had defeated JDU candidates in Bihar MLC elections.
  3. The move has raised questions over coordination and unity within NDA.

Bihar Politics: Just days after the results of the Legislative Council (MLC) elections, new developments have emerged in Bihar politics. Two Independent candidates who defeated JDU candidates in the polls have now extended their support to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rahul Raj and Banshidhar Brijwasi joined the BJP after meeting Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday. The move has altered the numerical strength of parties in the Bihar Legislative Council and also raised concerns over coordination between BJP and JDU, which are allies in the ruling NDA.

Two Independent MLCs Join BJP

Rahul Raj won the Saran Teachers' constituency, while Banshidhar Brijwasi retained the Tirhut Graduates' seat. Both contested as Independent candidates and defeated JDU nominees in their respective constituencies. While Raj defeated Anand Pushkar in Saran, Brijwasi defeated Abhishek Jha in Tirhut. Raj also defeated Jan Suraaj's sitting MLC Afak Ahmad in the Saran Teachers' constituency. Both leaders have now joined the BJP.

How Will Numbers Change?

The latest development is set to change the political equation in the Bihar Legislative Council, which has a total of 75 seats. Elections were held for eight seats on October 23. The BJP won three seats, while the two went to independent candidates. JDU managed to win only one seat, while the RJD and Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj won one seat each.

The BJP suffered a significant setback after its five-time MLC Nawal Kishore Yadav lost the Patna Teachers' seat to RJD candidate Dr Sanjeev Kumar. Following the loss, the BJP's strength in the Legislative Council fell to 24. However, now with the support of the two independent winners, the saffron party has the backing of 26 MLCs. JDU currently has 20 members in the Legislative Council, while the RJD has 17. The support of the two Independent MLCs gives the BJP a stronger position in the Upper House.

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JDU Leader Questions BJP's Role In MLC Elections

While the development has changed the number equation in the Upper House, it has led to questions within the NDA over unity and coordination. Anand Pushkar, who lost to Raj, has criticised some BJP leaders over their role in the elections. India Today reported that in a post on social media, Pushkar questioned whether BJP leaders had fulfilled their responsibilities towards candidates from their alliance partners.

He claimed that BJP leaders often seek votes in the name of former chief minister Nitish Kumar and highlight his government's development work during their own election campaigns. However, Pushkar alleged that the same support was missing when JDU candidates needed help. He also questioned the role of BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy in the Saran Teachers' constituency,

Pushkar further claimed that he had been assured during the campaign that the sitting MLC would be persuaded not to contest the election and would follow the NDA's decision. However, he alleged that the assurance was not fulfilled, and the sitting MLC eventually contested the election. Despite his criticism, Pushkar reaffirmed his loyalty to JDU and its leadership.

Tejashwi Yadav Seeke Disqualification Of MLCs

Meanwhile, Bihar LoP and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday called for the disqualification of newly elected MLCs Bansidhar Brajwasi and Rahul Raj after they joined the BJP. In a statement, Tejashwi said their decision to join the BJP amounted to a violation of the anti-defection law. He also criticised the BJP, accusing the party of making a mockery of the Constitution.

ALSO READ: MLC Election Results: Who Won, Who Lost On 28 Seats Across 4 States? Check Constituency-Wise List


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