Mahagathbandhan’s Poor Show in Bihar: Lack of Unity and Weak Strategy Blamed

The Mahagathbandhan suffered a major setback in the Bihar Assembly elections, with analysts pointing to poor alliance coordination, weak leadership, and an ineffective campaign strategy as primary reasons for the defeat.

Despite high expectations, the Grand Alliance failed to present a united front. Reports highlight serious lapses in seat-sharing, internal rifts among RJD, Congress and Left partners, and several instances of “friendly fights” that split votes. Congress’ weak organisational presence further weakened the coalition’s prospects.

Political observers say the alliance misjudged caste dynamics and relied heavily on traditional vote banks, while the NDA successfully consolidated support among women, Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs), and non-Yadav OBCs. The Mahagathbandhan’s ambitious job-related promises, including “one government job per family,” also drew criticism over feasibility.

In contrast, the NDA ran a disciplined, well-coordinated campaign, leveraging welfare schemes, governance messaging, and Nitish Kumar’s credibility. Strong booth-level management and social coalition-building helped the ruling alliance secure a decisive victory.

Analysts conclude that the Mahagathbandhan’s defeat stemmed largely from internal disunity and a lack of strategic clarity, which prevented it from countering the NDA’s well-organised electoral machinery.