INDIA Bloc Declares Tejashwi Yadav as Bihar CM Candidate Ahead of Crucial Assembly Polls

In a significant political development, the INDIA bloc officially declared Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav as its Chief Ministerial candidate for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. The announcement was made in Patna on Thursday, October 23, 2025, signaling a united front against the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

thehindu.com reported, Ashok Gehlot, a senior observer for the Bihar Assembly polls and a veteran Congress leader, formally announced Yadav's candidature. This declaration follows weeks of intense negotiations and speculation within the opposition alliance regarding its leadership for the crucial state elections.

Adding to the alliance's strategy, Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani was also named as the Deputy Chief Ministerial candidate. This move aims to consolidate support from the Nishad and Extremely Backward Class (EBC) communities, which are vital voter bases in Bihar.

economictimes.com noted, The Mahagathbandhan, comprising the RJD, Congress, and several Left parties including CPI(ML), CPI, and CPM, along with VIP, is gearing up for the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11, 2025. Results are expected on November 14, 2025.

This announcement positions Tejashwi Yadav, a former Deputy Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, as the primary challenger to the NDA in Bihar. The INDIA bloc seeks to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments and present a clear leadership alternative to the electorate.

indiatimes.com reported, The declaration also puts pressure on the NDA to clarify its own Chief Ministerial face, as the ruling alliance has maintained ambiguity regarding its leadership post-elections. This strategic move by the INDIA bloc aims to project unity and decisive leadership to the voters.

• The formal declaration of Tejashwi Yadav as the Chief Ministerial face marks a pivotal moment for the Mahagathbandhan, aiming to present a cohesive leadership structure. This decision, made after extensive internal deliberations, seeks to rally the alliance's diverse constituents and project a unified vision for Bihar's future, particularly appealing to the state's youth and marginalized classes.
• Tejashwi Yadav, son of former Chief Ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, brings a significant political legacy to the forefront. His journey from a professional cricketer to a prominent political figure, including stints as Bihar's youngest Deputy Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, highlights his rapid ascent and experience in state politics.
• The inclusion of Mukesh Sahani as the Deputy Chief Ministerial candidate is a calculated move to broaden the alliance's appeal. Sahani, representing the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), is expected to attract votes from the Nishad and other Extremely Backward Class (EBC) communities, which are crucial for electoral success in Bihar's caste-driven political landscape.
• The Bihar Assembly elections are set against a backdrop of complex caste dynamics and evolving political alliances. The Mahagathbandhan traditionally relies on a Muslim-Yadav (MY) vote bank, while the NDA has sought support from upper castes, non-Yadav OBCs, and Mahadalits. The 2023 caste census findings, showing over 63% OBCs and EBCs, intensify the focus on caste-based mobilization.
• The announcement by the INDIA bloc challenges the ruling NDA, which comprises the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), and other regional parties. The NDA has not yet declared its Chief Ministerial candidate, a strategy that keeps its allies guessing but also leaves room for post-poll adjustments, as noted by political analysts.
• Internal negotiations within the INDIA bloc, particularly concerning seat-sharing, preceded this announcement. Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot played a crucial role in resolving these issues and ensuring a unified front. Despite some initial reluctance from Congress, the consensus on Yadav's leadership underscores the alliance's commitment to present a strong challenge.
• Tejashwi Yadav has recently focused on policy announcements, such as reforms for Jivika Didis, promising government employee status and financial benefits. This approach, combined with his campaign slogan "Chalo Bihar, Badlein Bihar" (Let's Go Bihar, Let's Change Bihar), aims to build an emotional and developmental narrative, addressing issues like industrialization and employment.