Modi faces critical Bihar test as youth unrest and voter disillusionment roil polls
Key Takeaways
- The NDA faces a critical assembly election in Bihar in November, where youth unemployment and voter discontent pose significant threats.
- The election results are highly sensitive for the Modi government and could influence national politics ahead of the 2026 general elections.
- Key challenges for the NDA include public frustration over job stagnation and uncertainty surrounding the loyalty of ally Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
- The opposition RJD–Congress alliance is campaigning strongly on promises of guaranteed jobs and increased agricultural subsidies.
- Women voters, who benefited from welfare transfers, are a decisive bloc, but their support for the NDA is not guaranteed amid inflation concerns.
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is facing a crucial, make-or-break election in Bihar, scheduled for November, due to significant challenges like high youth unemployment and growing voter distrust regarding electoral roll irregularities. Bihar, a large and politically vital state, is seen as a key indicator for the national political mood ahead of the 2026 general elections. The alliance's cohesion is further complicated by the wavering loyalty of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, whose poor performance could trigger realignments in other states. Although the NDA maintains a narrow lead, largely due to cash transfer schemes benefiting millions of women, this advantage is fragile given public anger over economic stagnation and rising costs. The opposition, led by the RJD-Congress alliance, is focusing its campaign on guaranteed jobs and increased subsidies, resonating with skeptical young voters, while a new political force, Jan Suraaj, adds another layer of complexity. Ultimately, the outcome in Bihar will serve as a significant referendum on Modi’s leadership and the limits of his populist appeal in northern India.
