The Election Commission of India is expected to visit Bihar early next month, ahead of the Assembly elections scheduled for October–November. The visit has fueled speculation that polling dates may be announced soon.
Traditionally, the Commission’s visit to a poll-bound state is followed by the declaration of the election schedule within a day or two.
The upcoming Bihar Assembly elections will see the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comprising the BJP, JD(U), LJP, and allies aiming to retain power under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
On the other side, the Opposition’s INDIA bloc including the RJD, Congress, and Left parties will attempt to wrest control of the state.
Currently, in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, the NDA holds 131 seats, with BJP at 80, JD(U) at 45, HAM(S) at 4, and two independents.
The INDIA bloc controls 111 seats, led by RJD with 77, Congress with 19, CPI(ML) with 11, CPI(M) with 2, and CPI with 2.
