Patna: The CPI(ML) has announced Divya Gautam, cousin of late Bollywood actor Sushant Singh, as its candidate from Digha constituency in Patna, adding a touch of star power to the unfolding Bihar Assembly election 2025.
Gautam’s nomination comes as part of the Left’s early candidate rollout, while the Grand Alliance—comprising the RJD, Congress, and Left parties—continues to deliberate over seat-sharing arrangements.
The CPI(ML) has also fielded Rambali Yadav from Ghosi, Madan Singh Chandravanshi from Tarari, Shiv Prakash Ranjan from Agiaon, and Qayamuddin Ansari from Ara. Party leaders said the candidate list reflects a balance between grassroots leadership and new, dynamic faces.
Divya Gautam’s entry into the political fray has drawn attention not only for her family connection to the late actor but also for her local engagement in Patna’s civic and social issues. Her candidacy is expected to appeal to younger voters and women in the Digha constituency.
Meanwhile, the Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) met in Delhi on Sunday to finalise seat-sharing details with the RJD. Senior leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and KC Venugopal joined Bihar Congress chief Rajesh Ram to deliberate on the matter.
Sources indicate that Mukesh Sahni, leader of the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), has been offered 18 seats under the arrangement—with 10 candidates expected to contest on the RJD’s symbol. Sahni, speaking in jest, remarked that the Grand Alliance was “a little unwell” and would “recover soon in Delhi.”
As the Election Commission of India sets the nomination deadline for October 20, parties have begun issuing instructions to their candidates. The second phase of polling will be held on November 11, with counting scheduled for November 14.
