Are Nine Sitting Ministers Competing in the Second Phase of Bihar Polls Tomorrow?
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Synopsis
The Bihar Assembly's second phase elections will see intense competition among candidates, including nine sitting ministers and notable figures from major parties. This crucial phase will reveal the strength of alliances and the impact of anti-incumbency sentiments. Stay tuned for insights on key battles and family ties influencing the elections.
Key Takeaways
- Second phase of Bihar polls involves 1,302 candidates.
- Nine sitting ministers face potential anti-incumbency challenges.
- Friendly contests among Mahagathbandhan allies.
- Significant family ties influencing several key races.
- Security measures heightened with hyper-sensitive polling booths.
Patna, Nov 10 (NationPress) The second phase of elections for the Bihar Assembly is set for Tuesday, covering 122 constituencies across 20 districts.
In total, 1,302 candidates are vying for positions, including nine incumbent ministers and 15 former ministers.
This phase is marked by several prestigious contests.
In at least five seats, allies of the Mahagathbandhan are engaged in "friendly competitions" among themselves.
Numerous relatives of senior politicians are also in the race.
Snehlata Kushwaha, wife of former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha, is contesting from Sasaram, while Deepa Manjhi, daughter-in-law of Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, is running from Imamganj.
Jyoti Devi, the current MLA from Barachatti and sister-in-law of Manjhi, is also a contestant.
The outcomes in these areas hold significant personal and symbolic importance for the involved leaders.
A total of 45,399 polling stations have been established for this election phase.
Seven polling booths have been designated as hyper-sensitive.
Security and logistical measures have been enhanced.
Among the Nitish Kumar Cabinet ministers contesting are Bijendra Prasad Yadav (Supaul), Sumit Kumar Singh (Chakai), Mohd Zama Khan (Chainpur), Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha), Krishna Nandan Paswan (Harsidhi), Renu Devi (Bettiah), Neeraj Kumar Bablu (Chhatapur), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Prem Kumar (Gaya), Sheila Mandal (Phulparas), Vijay Mandal (Sikti), and Jayant Raj Kushwaha (Amarpur).
Many are encountering notable anti-incumbency, making this phase crucial for the ruling coalition.
Several prominent figures from the Mahagathbandhan are also risking their reputations in this phase.
Contestants include former Assembly Speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary (RJD), State Congress President Rajesh Ram, Congress Legislature Party leader Shakeel Ahmed Khan, and CPI-ML Legislature Party leader Mehboob Alam.
The booth management and seat-specific strategies of the Grand Alliance will be under close observation.
The Kargahar seat in Rohtas district is particularly noteworthy this phase.
Prashant Kishor, the mind behind the Jan Suraaj Party, is from this area, adding to the attention on this seat.
Jan Suraaj has nominated Bhojpuri singer Ritesh Pandey from this constituency.
The current MLA Santosh Mishra is contesting again on a Congress ticket.
The CPI has also entered a candidate, resulting in a triangular contest.
Close races are also anticipated in Narkatiaganj, Chainpur, Kargahar, Kahalgaon, Sultanganj, and Jamui (Sikandra).
In several of these places, allies of the Mahagathbandhan are involved in friendly competitions, creating triangular or multi-cornered contests.
Point of View
The focus shifts to the candidates and their strategies. The presence of sitting ministers indicates a significant contest, but the anti-incumbency sentiment may challenge their hold on power. The Mahagathbandhan's alliances could redefine the electoral landscape, making this phase crucial for all parties involved.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the second phase of polling in Bihar?
The second phase is crucial as it involves many key constituencies and candidates, including sitting ministers, which can influence the overall outcome of the Bihar Assembly elections.
How many candidates are contesting in this phase?
A total of 1,302 candidates are contesting in the second phase across 122 constituencies.
What role do family ties play in this election?
Family ties are significant, with several relatives of prominent leaders contesting, potentially impacting voter sentiment and alliances.
What security measures are in place for the polling?
Security and logistical arrangements have been intensified, with 45,399 polling stations and seven classified as hyper-sensitive.
Which constituencies are considered key battles?
Key battles include the Kargahar seat in Rohtas, as well as contests in Narkatiaganj, Chainpur, and Kahalgaon.
