Patna: In a new twist to Bihar’s political chessboard, the Congress has extended an open invitation to Upendra Kushwaha, chief of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), amid speculation that he might part ways with the NDA ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Dr Akhilesh Prasad Singh, speaking to reporters in Delhi on Wednesday, said, “If Kushwaha leaves the NDA and wishes to join the Mahagathbandhan, we will gladly welcome him. His inclusion will further strengthen the alliance.”
The offer comes at a time when Kushwaha has expressed dissatisfaction over seat-sharing arrangements within the NDA and has reportedly met senior BJP leaders in Delhi to convey his grievances.
Congress Says Seat-Sharing Finalised
Dr Singh dismissed reports of internal disagreements within the Mahagathbandhan, saying that the alliance partners had already finalised seat-sharing. “There is no dispute. Everything has been decided. The announcement can be made at any moment,” he said, adding, “Filing nominations does not take long — we still have time.”
When asked about Kushwaha’s reported discontent with the NDA, Singh reiterated, “We have always welcomed him. If he joins us, the Mahagathbandhan will emerge stronger.”
The Congress leader’s remarks come as the NDA faces challenges balancing seat distribution among allies like the JDU, HAM, and RLM, while the opposition bloc — led by the RJD and Congress — seeks to consolidate support among backward and OBC voters.
Background: Kushwaha’s Shifting Equations
Upendra Kushwaha, known for his political flexibility, has alternated between alliances over the years. Once a close ally of Nitish Kumar, he has also been part of the UPA in the past. His recent discomfort with the NDA’s internal dynamics and limited seat allocation has sparked speculation about a possible shift.
