Bihar Election: RLM Meeting Postponed; Kushwaha Heads to Delhi Amid Rumoured NDA Rift

In a sudden political development ahead of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025, the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) has postponed its key strategy meeting scheduled for today. Party chief Upendra Kushwaha is set to travel to Delhi, fueling speculation of growing differences within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over seat-sharing talks.

According to sources, the meeting was expected to finalize RLM’s seat demand and candidate list in coordination with the BJP-led NDA. However, the postponement has sparked talk that all is not well within the alliance, especially after reports of disagreements over constituency allocation.

Kushwaha’s sudden Delhi plan raises eyebrows

RLM insiders said that Upendra Kushwaha’s visit to Delhi will include high-level meetings with BJP leaders. While no official agenda has been released, speculation is rife that he might seek clarity on the party’s seat share and the NDA’s campaign roadmap in central Bihar.

The party’s media cell maintained that the visit is “routine” and aimed at “final consultations,” but observers note that Kushwaha’s recent statements hint at unease within the NDA over the BJP–JD(U) seat parity deal announced earlier this week.

NDA still working out seat balance

The BJP and JD(U) have already agreed to contest 101 seats each, leaving 29 for allies including Chirag Paswan’s LJP (Ram Vilas). However, RLM had demanded a “respectable” number of seats in regions where it holds traditional influence, particularly in Rohtas, Aurangabad, and Jehanabad.

Sources suggest that RLM’s leadership is “unhappy” with being offered fewer than 10 seats. Kushwaha had earlier said the NDA should avoid “symbolic alliances” and ensure “honourable representation” for all partners.

Political observers see signs of friction

Analysts say the postponed meeting and sudden Delhi trip point to negotiation tensions within the NDA. “Kushwaha’s move is more tactical than emotional,” said a Patna-based political expert. “He knows his leverage is highest right now — before candidate announcements are finalized.”

Similar unease has been visible among smaller NDA partners who fear that the BJP-JD(U) power balance might marginalize them in candidate selection.

What’s next?

RLM officials have confirmed that a new meeting will be rescheduled later this week after Kushwaha’s return from Delhi. The party is expected to issue an official statement clarifying its stance once discussions with the BJP leadership conclude.

Meanwhile, the NDA is racing against time to announce its first list of candidates, expected within days. Both the Mahagathbandhan and AIMIM have also intensified their campaigns, adding to Bihar’s rapidly shifting political landscape.