To resolve the deadlock over seat allocation in the Bihar elections' grand alliance, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi spoke with RJD chief Lalu Yadav on Thursday. Earlier, to tackle the disagreements, Rahul Gandhi met Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge at 10 Rajaji Marg around 2:15 PM, joined by General Secretary KC Venugopal.
Sources indicate that during this meeting, Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need to craft a balanced formula with Kharge and Venugopal, ensuring the interests of both parties were prioritized. Following this meeting, discussions with Tejashwi Yadav are anticipated.
Reconsidering the Seat Sharing Formula?
It has been reported that Rahul Gandhi suggested revisiting the seat-sharing formula and urged expedited discussions with the RJD. Congress believes it deserves seats where it has a strong organization and voter base. Meanwhile, RJD has already released its initial list, which includes several seats also claimed by Congress.
Tension within the Grand Alliance
Recent tensions over seat distribution within the grand alliance have been notable, especially concerning key seats like Kahalgaon and Narkatiaganj. Congress stands firm on its claims to these seats, while RJD also seeks to secure them, delaying consensus on seat-sharing, which could advantage the NDA.
Progress in NDA
Meanwhile, the NDA has finalized its seat allocation, with JD(U) and BJP contesting 101 seats each. Other allies, Chirag’s party will contest 29 seats, while Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha's parties will contest 6 seats each.
