New Delhi: As the Bihar Assembly elections of 2025 approach, political maneuvering in the state is intensifying. Every party is actively trying to attract leaders with grassroots influence from other factions in an effort to strengthen their position. In this context, a significant twist has surfaced in the pre-election landscape, with Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahni making a bold announcement — his party will contest 60 seats in the upcoming polls. This declaration has sent ripples through Bihar’s political waters, challenging the unity of the INDIA alliance (Mahagathbandhan) and reviving speculation around Sahni’s possible return to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
This assertive statement was made on the death anniversary of Dalit icon Phoolan Devi, and it was anything but mild. Mukesh Sahni, widely recognised as the “Son of Mallah,” delivered a stinging message: “They took four of our MLAs, now we will take away 40 of theirs!” In doing so, Sahni not only targeted the NDA but also delivered a pointed warning to his current allies. His message was clear — the VIP is no longer content with a subordinate role and is ready to pursue an independent political course if necessary.
In response to Sahni’s aggressive posturing, Bihar minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) leader Santosh Suman extended a public offer inviting Sahni to return to the NDA fold. “Mukesh Sahni’s political thought process is more in sync with the NDA than with the INDIA bloc. His colleagues are already feeling choked within the INDIA alliance,” said Suman. He further emphasized that aligning with the NDA would not only strengthen VIP but would also significantly enhance the NDA’s electoral prospects. Criticising Sahni’s demand for 60 seats from the INDIA bloc as unrealistic under current circumstances, Suman noted that the NDA could offer a more practical and fruitful environment for seat-sharing discussions.
Meanwhile, Sahni’s declaration has amplified the pressure on the INDIA alliance, which is already dealing with considerable internal tensions over seat allocation. According to political commentators, Sahni’s unyielding stance indicates a broader dissatisfaction among the alliance’s smaller partners, particularly those representing caste-based or regional interests, such as the Nishad community.
If Sahni decides to return to the NDA, it would mark a strategic boost for the BJP-led coalition. VIP’s established influence, especially in riverbank constituencies and among Mallah and Nishad voters, could offer a critical edge in tightly fought electoral battles. Conversely, his departure would come as a significant setback for the INDIA alliance, which is already under strain from unresolved leadership tussles, poor coordination, and competing political interests among its member parties.
