Mon Feb 23 02:30:24 UTC 2026: ### NDA Poised for Rajya Sabha Sweep in Bihar, Reinforcing EBC Outreach

The Story:

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is on track to win all five Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar during the March 16, 2026, elections, capitalizing on a fractured opposition. A key strategy involves renominating JD(U) leader Ram Nath Thakur, son of former Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, to solidify the party’s Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) outreach, leveraging the legacy of the Bharat Ratna awardee. This move comes as the terms of several Rajya Sabha members, including Harivansh Narayan Singh, Prem Chand Gupta, Amarendra Dhari Singh, and Upendra Kushwaha, are set to end on April 9, 2026.

Key Points:

  • The NDA commands a strong majority with 202 MLAs in the 243-member Assembly, securing four seats (two each for BJP and JD(U)).
  • A candidate requires 41 votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat.
  • The opposition Mahagathbandhan, with 35 MLAs, faces challenges in forming a consensus on a joint candidate, hindering their ability to contest the fifth seat effectively.
  • JD(U) is likely to retain Ram Nath Thakur but may not renominate Harivansh Narayan Singh.
  • The BJP is considering various candidates, potentially a mix of upper caste and OBC/EBC/Dalit representatives, including Nitin Nabin and Rama Devi.
  • Upendra Kushwaha is reportedly seeking a legislative position for his son, adding complexity to the BJP’s decision on the fifth seat.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NDA’s strategic focus on EBC outreach, exemplified by renominating Ram Nath Thakur, is a crucial factor in their expected dominance.
  • The fractured opposition, unable to unite behind a common candidate, significantly strengthens the NDA’s position.
  • The BJP’s decision-making process regarding candidates involves balancing caste representation and internal political considerations.
  • Smaller NDA allies are vying for MLC berths, indicating a broader negotiation for power within the coalition.

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