What Candidates Did JD(U) Just Announce for Bihar Polls?
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Synopsis
The Janata Dal (United) has announced its second list of candidates for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, featuring 44 candidates, including four Muslims. This strategic move aims to enhance inclusivity and represent diverse backgrounds, while also adhering to grassroots mobilization ahead of the elections.
Key Takeaways
- JD(U) has released a second list of 44 candidates
- Inclusion of four Muslim candidates marks a strategic shift
- The party is focusing on balancing experience and youth
- Grassroots mobilization is a priority ahead of elections
- Election dates are set for November 6 and 11
Patna, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Janata Dal (United) has unveiled its second roster of candidates for the upcoming 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. This list comprises 44 candidates, featuring a mix of established leaders, current MLAs, and dynamic newcomers from diverse social and professional spheres, symbolizing the party's effort to blend experience with youthful vigor.
With this latest announcement, the party has escalated its electoral strategies.
In a public statement, the JD(U) extended congratulations to all selected candidates, emphasizing that the list was crafted with a vision of promoting inclusive development under the guidance of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
Notable figures on this list include Dhirendra Pratap Singh alias Rinku Singh (Valmikinagar), Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha), Jayant Raj (Amarpur), Mahabali Singh (Karakat), and Sumit Kumar Singh (Chakai).
Additional names include Samridh Verma (Sikta), Shweta Gupta (Sheohar), Pankaj Mishra (Runnisaidpur), Sudhanshu Shekhar (Harlakhi), Meena Kamat (Babubarhi), Sheela Mandal (Phulparas), Satish Sah (Laukaha), Aniruddh Prasad Yadav (Nirmali), Vijendra Prasad Yadav (Supaul), Bulo Mandal (Gopalpur), Lalit Narayan Mandal (Sultanganj), Manorama Devi (Belaganj), Chetan Anand (Navinagar), and Vibha Devi (Nawada).
Notably, the JD(U) has incorporated four Muslim candidates in this list - a strategic move perceived as a course correction following the criticism directed at the first list, which lacked Muslim representation.
The Muslim candidates included are Janab Manzar Alam (Jokihat), Jama Khan (Chainpur), Saba Zafar (Aamour), and Shagufta Azim (Araria).
Political analysts suggest that this inclusion reflects Nitish Kumar's intention to maintain minority support and enhance the NDA's social outreach, particularly after the BJP’s candidate lists omitted Muslim names entirely.
This second list illustrates the JD(U)'s approach of merging social inclusivity, regional representation, and party loyalty.
The presence of experienced politicians like Leshi Singh and Mahabali Singh alongside younger representatives such as Shweta Gupta and Samridh Verma indicates the party's strategy to resonate with both urban and rural demographics.
With this release, the JD(U) has now announced 101 candidates over two phases, nearing the completion of the NDA's seat-sharing arrangement.
The party's next priority will be grassroots mobilization and campaign coordination in all districts.
Bihar is set to hold elections in two phases on November 6 and November 11, with results being declared on November 14.
Point of View
My view reflects a commitment to thorough reporting on political events. The JD(U)'s recent announcement of candidates, particularly the inclusion of Muslim representatives, indicates a strategic shift towards a more inclusive approach, essential for maintaining diverse electoral support. This aligns with the ongoing dialogue about representation and inclusivity in Indian politics.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Which candidates are included in JD(U)'s second list?
The second list includes 44 candidates, featuring notable figures such as Dhirendra Pratap Singh, Leshi Singh, and four Muslim candidates: Janab Manzar Alam, Jama Khan, Saba Zafar, and Shagufta Azim.
What is the significance of including Muslim candidates?
Including Muslim candidates is seen as a strategic move by JD(U) to address criticism from the first list and to strengthen support from minority communities.
When will the Bihar Assembly elections take place?
Bihar will hold elections in two phases on November 6 and November 11, with results set to be announced on November 14.
