Owaisi’s Stance: A Decisive Bihar Election Rejection of INDIA Bloc

Hyderabad, Telangana – In a significant political development ahead of the highly anticipated Bihar Assembly elections, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Asaduddin Owaisi has unequivocally stated his party will not be aligning with the INDIA bloc. The decision, articulated by Owaisi on Monday, underscores a deepening rift within the opposition landscape and sets the stage for a potentially multi-cornered contest in the crucial Bihar Election.

The “One-Sided Love” and Past Grievances in Bihar Election

Owaisi, known for his fiery rhetoric and independent political posture, dismissed the possibility of joining the Congress-led alliance with a pointed remark: “One-sided love is not going to happen.” This statement comes after AIMIM reportedly extended a proposal to join the Mahagathbandhan, spearheaded by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Yadav, a move that apparently met with a less-than-enthusiastic reception.

Owaisi elaborated on his disinterest, citing historical accusations leveled against his party. He believes these accusations were fabricated lies, designed to prevent a leader representing the poor and oppressed from emerging as a significant political force. “The people of Bihar should understand that the accusations that were made against us were based on lies and were made because they do not want a leader of the poor and oppressed people to become their political leadership,” Owaisi asserted.

Exploring Alternatives: A Third Front for the Bihar Election

Instead of joining the established opposition alliance, AIMIM is actively considering alternative strategies, including the formation of a ‘third front’. AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman has been vocal about this prospect, a suggestion that Owaisi appears to be seriously entertaining. This move could fundamentally alter the electoral dynamics, particularly in regions where AIMIM holds influence.

AIMIM’s Focus: The Seemanchal Region in the Bihar Election

Owaisi has confirmed that AIMIM will contest the upcoming Bihar Election, with a strong emphasis on the Seemanchal region. This area, known for its significant Muslim population, is a stronghold for the party, and their independent participation here could significantly impact the electoral outcomes for other parties.

Accusations Against the INDIA Bloc and the Path Ahead for the Bihar Election

The AIMIM chief did not mince words when criticizing the INDIA bloc, alleging that they are unwilling to see a leader from marginalized communities rise to prominence. “They just want you to remain their slaves, to walk behind them with your head bowed,” Owaisi declared, positioning AIMIM as an independent force ready to challenge this perceived dominance. He affirmed his party’s readiness to contest the elections on their own terms, reiterating the push for a third front as a strategic effort. “We will fight our elections well. Our president, Akhtarul Iman, has said that we should try to form a third front. This was an effort from our side. Everything has come before the people of Bihar for a reason,” he stated.

The Broader Context of the Bihar Election

The upcoming Bihar Election, expected in October or November, will see a fierce contest between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the INDIA bloc. The NDA, comprising the BJP, JD(U), and LJP, aims to retain power, while the INDIA bloc, including RJD, Congress, and left parties, is determined to unseat Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

In the current 243-member Bihar Assembly:

• NDA: Holds 131 seats (BJP: 80, JD(U): 45, HAM(S): 4, supported by 2 Independents).
• INDIA Bloc: Holds 111 seats (RJD: 77, Congress: 19, CPI(ML): 11, CPI(M): 2, CPI: 2).

Adding another layer to the pre-election scenario, Owaisi also commented on the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He questioned the ECI’s authority to determine citizenship and criticized the reliance on anonymous sources for information regarding SIR. The Supreme Court recently allowed the ECI to continue SIR while advising the consideration of Aadhaar, ration cards, and electoral photo identity cards as valid documents for voter identity proof.

Owaisi’s firm rejection of the INDIA bloc and his party’s intent to contest independently or form a third front will undoubtedly reshape the electoral battleground in Bihar, making the upcoming Bihar Election a fascinating and unpredictable political spectacle.