Mon Apr 28 20:25:38 UTC 2025: ## Bihar’s Waqf Act Controversy Unlikely to Sway Muslim Voters, Analysts Say

**PATNA, Bihar (April 29, 2025)** — The recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Act has ignited controversy across India, prompting resignations within Bihar’s ruling coalition and raising concerns about its impact on upcoming elections. However, analysts from Lokniti-CSDS argue that the Act is unlikely to significantly alter electoral dynamics in Bihar, despite the sizeable Muslim population.

The Act’s passage has caused unrest within the Janata Dal (United) (JD-U) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alliance, particularly given Bihar’s upcoming polls. Muslims comprise approximately 18% of Bihar’s population, and their votes are crucial in numerous constituencies. In some areas, Muslim voters exceed 70%, wielding significant influence.

However, data from Lokniti-CSDS post-poll surveys reveals a consistent pattern: the JD(U)-BJP alliance has historically received minimal support from Muslim voters. Even during periods of alliance shifts, such as the 2015 JD(U)-RJD-Congress coalition, the majority of Muslim votes went to the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan. This trend continued even after the JD(U)’s return to the NDA in 2020.

While the Waqf Act may deepen dissatisfaction among some Muslim voters, the analysts contend that its impact on the NDA’s electoral prospects is likely to be minimal. Unless other significant factors alter established voting patterns, the existing trend of Muslim voters favoring the RJD-led alliance is expected to persist in the upcoming elections. The study suggests that the Muslim vote has consistently favored the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan over the past three decades, regardless of the JD(U)’s alliance choices.

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