Is the Mahagathbandhan Falling Apart Over Ticket Issues?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Giriraj Singh's recent remarks reveal a deepening rift within the Mahagathbandhan, highlighting allegations of ticket sales amid protests by former candidates. As the Bihar Assembly elections approach, internal discord raises questions about the alliance's future. Will this turmoil affect their electoral prospects?
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister Giriraj Singh criticizes the Mahagathbandhan.
- Allegations of ticket sales have surfaced.
- Emotional protests by candidates highlight internal strife.
- The Bihar Assembly elections are approaching rapidly.
- Seat-sharing disagreements persist between RJD and Congress.
Begusarai, Oct 19 (NationPress) Union Minister Giriraj Singh fiercely criticized the Mahagathbandhan on Sunday, stating that there is a lack of agreement among the parties and within their ranks, following claims from certain RJD leaders regarding the sale of tickets.
The comments emerged amidst chaotic scenes outside the home of RJD chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, where ex-RJD candidate Madan Shah emotionally accused the party of corruption and betrayal in its ticket allocation.
In an interview with IANS, Shah revealed that he had been promised a ticket by Lalu Prasad Yadav to run from the Madhuban Assembly constituency in Motihari.
He further alleged that RJD leader Sanjay Yadav asked for Rs 2.7 crore for the ticket, and when he declined to pay, the ticket was given to another candidate. In a dramatic act of protest, Shah ripped his clothes and lay on the road outside Rabri Devi's residence, demanding a meeting with Lalu Prasad Yadav. The ticket for Madhuban was subsequently awarded to Santosh Kushwaha.
In response to these events, Giriraj Singh remarked to IANS, "There is no real alliance in the Opposition. This is a deception. Even within their own parties, there are conflicts. Lalu has yet to name a Chief Ministerial candidate. Some RJD members are blaming Lalu and Tejashwi for the ticket sales. There are numerous instances where candidates from the Mahagathbandhan are competing against one another."
He added, "This alliance has shattered into a thousand fragments -- Tejashwi is in one place, Lalu is in another, and Rahul is elsewhere."
Later, addressing the media, Singh stated, "There's a tussle in the Mahagathbandhan over the buying and selling of tickets. I urge Lalu Prasad Yadav -- it's happening at your doorstep. Don’t open the door, or your kurta will be torn too."
The polling for the Bihar Assembly elections is scheduled to occur in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results expected on November 14.
As the campaign heats up, internal strife within the Mahagathbandhan has intensified, with both the RJD and Congress still at odds over finalizing seat-sharing arrangements.
While the RJD is adamant about offering around 58 seats, the Congress demands to contest more than 60, ideally 65, citing its national stature.
Point of View
Our responsibility is to report fairly on the political landscape. The discord within the Mahagathbandhan reflects broader challenges facing coalitions in Indian politics. We must observe how these dynamics evolve as the Bihar Assembly elections draw near, impacting both parties involved.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against the Mahagathbandhan?
The main allegations involve accusations of ticket sales and internal conflicts among party leaders, particularly within the RJD, as highlighted by Union Minister Giriraj Singh.
Who is Madan Shah and what did he claim?
Madan Shah is a former RJD candidate who claimed he was promised a ticket to contest from the Madhuban constituency but alleged that he was asked for a bribe of Rs 2.7 crore.
When are the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled?
The Bihar Assembly elections are set to take place in two phases on November 6 and November 11, with results expected on November 14.
What is the current seat-sharing situation between RJD and Congress?
The RJD is offering around 58 seats, while Congress is insisting on contesting over 60, ideally 65, due to its national stature.
How might these internal conflicts affect the elections?
The internal discord could weaken the Mahagathbandhan's electoral prospects, leading to a potential loss of seats if candidates are not united.
