Even as the Congress leadership grapples with challenges in Karnataka, reports suggest that the party might end up with zero Assembly seats in Bihar, mirroring its current count in West Bengal. Speculation surrounds the six Congress MLAs in Bihar, with indications that they could switch to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal-United.
While Congress leaders refute these claims, the absence of MLAs from party events and alleged overtures from the ruling NDA have fueled talks of further weakening the already fragile Opposition. Recent reports indicate that Janata Dal-United leaders are engaging with Congress MLAs, hinting at possible defections in the near future.
Adding to the speculation, a minister from the Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas claimed that all six Congress legislators are in contact with the ruling NDA and may defect post-Makar Sankranti. This development follows the NDA’s significant victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, where it secured 202 out of 243 seats, significantly impacting the Mahagathbandhan alliance.
Analyses project three potential outcomes, ranging from complete defection of all MLAs, symbolizing Congress’s collapse in Bihar, to a partial defection triggering an official split under anti-defection laws. The uncertainty surrounding the situation poses a credibility challenge for Congress, potentially further weakening the Opposition bloc.
State Congress President Rajesh Ram has affirmed the MLAs’ loyalty, dismissing NDA’s misinformation campaign. Despite assurances from national leaders about the party’s focus on nationwide campaigns, Congress faces the risk of losing its entire legislative presence in Bihar, a state where it is already struggling to maintain influence.
For Nitish Kumar and the NDA, potential defections would solidify their dominance, while for the Opposition, it signifies another setback in a state historically pivotal for anti-BJP politics. Although the central Congress leadership denies immediate defections, internal sources acknowledge dwindling morale post-electoral defeat.
In West Bengal, the Congress currently lacks representation in the Assembly, highlighting a stark contrast to its past rule in the state until 1977. The party’s diminishing presence in multiple states underscores the challenges it faces in maintaining political relevance and unity.
