By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Rashtriya Lok Morcha President Upendra Kushwaha has initiated preparations for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, embarking on his ‘Bihar Yatra’ from 25 September. The journey will commence in Kurtha (Arwal), the land of Jagdev Babu, marking the first phase of his state-wide tour.
Kushwaha’s itinerary for the first phase includes stops in Arwal and Aurangabad on 25 September, Aurangabad and Rohtas on 26 September, Rohtas and Bhojpur on 27 September, and Saran on 29 September. Details regarding subsequent phases of the Yatra will be announced at a later date.
Speaking during a Rashtriya Lok Morcha programme, Kushwaha emphasised his ongoing efforts to strengthen the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). While the opposition has raised concerns about seat-sharing arrangements, he reassured supporters that there are no internal conflicts, and decisions will be made collectively. Kushwaha expressed confidence that the NDA will secure victory in the upcoming elections.
It is noteworthy that Kushwaha previously contested the Lok Sabha elections from Karakat but was unsuccessful. However, he was later nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the NDA. Through his Bihar Yatra, Kushwaha aims to bolster the NDA’s position in the upcoming assembly elections.
Simultaneously, opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has also embarked on a dialogue tour, starting from Samastipur in Mithila. His state-wide journey includes interactions with party workers and public feedback, as part of his preparation for the assembly elections. Yadav has made several announcements, including a promise of 200 units of free electricity and the formation of a Mithila Development Authority.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, known for his state tours, is also planning a ‘Mahila Samvad Yatra’, although the programme is yet to be finalised. His journey is expected to begin in October or November. Meanwhile, Prashant Kishore, the convener of Jan Suraaj, has been conducting a padayatra for the last two years.
