THERE IS LITTLE REASON FOR THE NDA TO WORRY IN BIHAR

The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has ignited controversy across India, particularly among Muslim leaders.

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It has triggered resignations from some Janata Dal (United) leaders, causing unrest within the ruling coalition of the JD(U) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar and at the Centre. With Bihar set to go to polls later this year, this unrest raises questions about the electoral implications for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

While there is a sizeable number of Muslim voters in Bihar, who hold the key for electoral success in many Assembly constituencies, the fear that the Waqf Act could adversely affect the electoral prospects of the NDA in Bihar is unfounded since the JD(U)-BJP alliance has never been the choice of Muslim voters.

According to the 2011 Census, Muslims make up around 18% of Bihar's population. In about 40 Assembly constituencies, Muslims account for over 25% of the electorate,

with another 20 seats having 20-25% Muslim voters. In some constituencies such as Amour and Kochadhaman, Muslim voters exceed 70%. Overall, Muslims significantly influence 60-70 of Bihar's 243 Assembly seats. A unified Muslim vote could sway outcomes in these areas.