The Bihar Assembly Election 2025 results have delivered a major blow to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Mahagathbandhan alliance. The ‘promise of change’ projected by Chief Minister aspirant Tejashwi Yadav failed to convert into seats. While the NDA is cruising toward a clear majority, both RJD and Congress have slipped far below their previous performances.
Several factors contributed to this underwhelming outcome, including the internal rift within the Lalu family and the shocking electoral performance of Tej Pratap Yadav.
Why Did Tejashwi Yadav’s Charm Fade?
Tejashwi Yadav drew massive crowds during his rallies and campaigned aggressively on the promise of “10 lakh government jobs,” but this momentum did not translate into electoral gains. The key reasons include:
1.Trust Deficit & the Fear of ‘Jungle Raj’
The BJP and JDU capitalized heavily on the fear of the return of the alleged ‘jungle raj’ from Lalu Prasad’s era. With Lalu in jail and RJD’s old image still firmly in public memory, a significant section of Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) and the middle class preferred the “stability” offered by the NDA.
2.Overdependence on Traditional MY Vote Bank
RJD failed to deepen its outreach to EBCs and Mahadalits. The party continued to rely heavily on the Muslim–Yadav (MY) equation, while Nitish Kumar maintained a strong hold over women voters and EBC communities.
3.Congress’ Weak Link in the Alliance
Congress proved to be the weakest partner in the Mahagathbandhan. Contesting 61 seats, it managed to lead in only about 4–6. The party also failed to transfer its votes effectively to RJD, severely damaging the alliance’s chances.
4.Nitish Kumar’s Strong Connect With Women Voters
Nitish Kumar’s long-standing influence among women voters remained intact due to policies like liquor ban, bicycle scheme, and reservation for women in Panchayats. Women voted decisively for the NDA, becoming a crucial factor in the alliance’s success.
5.Tejashwi’s Own Seat Under Pressure
Tejashwi Yadav faced an unexpectedly tough contest in his stronghold, Raghopur, trailing initially before gaining a lead later. This close fight raised questions about his statewide popularity and electoral strength.
The Shocking State of Tej Pratap Yadav’s Electoral Battle
Lalu Prasad’s elder son, Tej Pratap Yadav, added to the Mahagathbandhan’s troubles. Breaking away from the RJD, he formed his own party—Jan Shakti Janata Dal (JJD)—and contested from Mahua.
Stunningly Poor Performance
Trends showed Tej Pratap in third place in Mahua. He received fewer votes than even the LJP (Ram Vilas) and RJD candidates. This result stunned observers and embarrassed the Mahagathbandhan.
Family Rift Out in the Open
Tej Pratap’s decision to contest separately exposed the deepening rifts within the Lalu family. His poor performance further demoralized the RJD cadre and confused voters.
Tejashwi Yadav’s appeal and promises were overshadowed by the NDA’s welfare-driven governance model, and superior organizational strength. The Congress’ weak performance and internal tensions within the Lalu family amplified the alliance’s problems. Tej Pratap’s surprising downfall and Tejashwi’s struggle even in his home turf questioned the overall credibility and unity of the RJD.
In the end, the NDA’s combination of targeted welfare policies, women-centric initiatives, and a well-oiled booth-level machinery proved far more effective than the Mahagathbandhan’s message of change.
