The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is gearing up for a significant reshuffle ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, with reports suggesting that over 15 sitting MLAs may be denied tickets. After an intensive two-day meeting that stretched over 15 hours, the party has finalised a preliminary list of contenders while reviewing the performance, loyalty, and winning potential of its current legislators.
Sources reveal that the review process was exhaustive, featuring district-wise assessments of each constituency. Feedback was taken on booth-level strength, local issues, anti-incumbency sentiments, and the impact of recent political developments. The exercise followed Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit to Bihar, during which he stressed the need for a transparent and merit-based candidate selection process.
Only key district leaders were allowed to participate in the discussions, while ticket aspirants were kept out to prevent lobbying. District presidents were instructed to recommend only the most promising names, with some constituencies presenting as many as 10 potential candidates.
Party insiders indicate that MLAs above the age of 70, those with questionable loyalty during the 2024 NDA trust vote, or those seen as inactive face the greatest risk of losing their tickets. Marginal winners from 2020 and leaders seeking tickets for family members are also under close scrutiny, as the leadership has discouraged family-based nominations.
Although NDA seat-sharing details are yet to be announced, the BJP is expected to contest around 103 of Bihar’s 243 seats, with winnability set as the top priority for final candidate selection. Polling is likely in October or November.
