Is AIMIM Preparing for a Rajya Sabha Contest from Bihar?
Synopsis
As political dynamics shift in Bihar ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, AIMIM signals its intent to field a candidate, raising questions about alliances and opposition unity. This news could significantly impact the region's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
AIMIM is considering fielding a candidate in the Rajya Sabha elections.
The NDA enjoys a strong majority in the Bihar Assembly.
Political alliances will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
The elections are scheduled for March 16, with important dates leading up to it.
Representation of marginalized communities is a key focus for AIMIM.
Patna, Feb 19 (NationPress) In light of the recent announcement regarding the Rajya Sabha elections for 37 seats nationwide, political activity in Bihar is on the rise, with AIMIM hinting at the possibility of presenting its own candidate.
AIMIM MLA Akhtarul Iman, present at the Assembly, stated that his party plans to take part in the Rajya Sabha elections from Bihar.
Currently, AIMIM holds five seats in the 243-member Bihar Assembly.
When questioned by reporters about which coalition AIMIM would align with during the Rajya Sabha elections, Iman responded, “Am I born to support anyone?”
He emphasized that parties aiming to combat communal politics and safeguard the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities should back AIMIM’s candidate.
Iman further remarked that AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi has persistently advocated for the oppressed and stands resolutely against communalism nationwide, asserting that his leadership merits broader political backing.
With five Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar becoming available, political discussions are intensifying.
The NDA holds a commanding majority in the Bihar Assembly, with 202 MLAs including the Bharatiya Janata Party, Janata Dal (United), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Hindustani Awam Morcha, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha.
Considering the assembly composition, the NDA is poised to win four out of the five seats, while the fifth seat may be contested depending on the unity of the opposition and AIMIM’s position.
To secure all five seats, the NDA would require the support of 205 MLAs. Although they easily meet the threshold for four seats, they fall slightly short for the fifth.
Conversely, if the Grand Alliance gains support from AIMIM’s five MLAs and one from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), they could clinch one seat.
If AIMIM and BSP opt out, the NDA is likely to dominate all five seats.
The notification for the Rajya Sabha elections is set to be released on February 26. The nomination deadline is March 5, with scrutiny on March 6 and the withdrawal deadline on March 9. Voting is scheduled for March 16 from 9 am to 4 pm, with counting at 5 pm the same day.
The entire election process will conclude by March 20.
Among the retiring members from Bihar are Amarendra Singh and Premchand Gupta from the RJD. From the JD(U), Union Minister of State Ram Nath Thakur and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh will complete their terms on April 9, 2026.
Upendra Kushwaha, elected from the BJP quota in a bye-election, will also retire on the same date.
Point of View
The political maneuvers surrounding the Rajya Sabha elections in Bihar indicate a critical moment for opposition parties, particularly AIMIM. The potential for shifting alliances and the impact on marginalized communities highlight the importance of this election on a larger scale.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of AIMIM's participation in the Rajya Sabha elections?
AIMIM's participation signifies a push for representation of marginalized communities and challenges the dominance of major political parties in Bihar.
How many seats are at stake in the Bihar Rajya Sabha elections?
There are five Rajya Sabha seats available from Bihar in the upcoming elections.
What is the current strength of the NDA in the Bihar Assembly?
The NDA holds a majority with 202 MLAs in the 243-member Bihar Assembly.
When is the voting scheduled for the Rajya Sabha elections?
Voting for the Rajya Sabha elections is scheduled for March 16, from 9 am to 4 pm.
What happens if AIMIM and BSP abstain from voting?
If AIMIM and BSP abstain, the NDA is likely to win all five Rajya Sabha seats.
