Two newly-elected Bihar Independent MLCs now support BJP
Two newly-elected Independent MLCs in Bihar have pledged their support to the ruling BJP party shortly after winning their seats. Both candidates defeated Janata Dal-United (JD-U) rivals, highlighting internal friction within the ruling coalition.
Why it matters
Illustrates the shifting political alliances and internal power dynamics within Bihar's state government.
Patna Days after winning the State legislative council elections from Saran Teachers and Tirhut Graduate constituencies as Independent candidates, the two newly-elected MLCs Rahul Raj and Banshidhar Brajwasi extended their support to the ruling BJP and attended party’s State legislature meeting on Saturday (October 31, 2026). Both the Independent candidates, significantly, had defeated the ruling alliance partner Janata Dal-United candidates from their respective constituencies. Bihar MLC polls: JD(U) faces dissent; RLM to back own candidate Bihar MLC polls: JD(U) faces dissent; RLM to back own candidate One of the rebel MLAs, Anand Madhav, said the decision was taken out of “respect” for party workers.
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