Bihar's political landscape is heating up as the state prepares for the 2025 Assembly elections. Key developments unfolded on Wednesday, including Prashant Kishor's announcement that he will not contest the elections, a move he claims is for the "greater good" of his party, Jan Suraaj. Kishor stated, "If I were to contest, it would distract me from necessary organisational work," and confirmed that his party will field Chanchal Singh against RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Raghopur. Despite stepping back, Kishor expressed confidence in his party's performance, stating, "We will either win handsomely or face a complete drubbing. There’s no middle ground."

The political atmosphere is charged as the NDA allies, including the BJP and JD(U), have nearly finalised their candidate lists. The JD(U) released its first list of 57 candidates, featuring 30 newcomers and 27 sitting MLAs, while notably excluding Muslim candidates, which may affect its support among that demographic. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party aims to balance caste representation across various groups, including OBCs and Scheduled Castes.

The BJP has also been active, announcing its second and third lists of candidates, bringing its total to 101. Notable candidates include folk singer Maithili Thakur from Alinagar and former IPS officer Anand Mishra from Buxar. The party's lists reflect a mix of experience and fresh faces, with nine women candidates included.

Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc, comprising the RJD, Congress, and other allies, is still negotiating seat-sharing arrangements. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav filed his nomination from Raghopur, emphasizing his commitment to addressing unemployment and corruption in Bihar. He stated, "The people of Raghopur have trusted me twice, and I believe this time as well they will trust me."

As the election date approaches, with polling set for November 6 and 11, the political stakes are high. The results will be announced on November 14, and both alliances are gearing up for a fierce contest in the state.