With the Rajya Sabha elections for five seats in Bihar scheduled for March 16, political activity in the state has intensified. A new controversy has emerged within the opposition ranks after RJD MLA Bhai Virendra suggested that Hina Shahab should be the Mahagathbandhan’s candidate this time. His proposal has sparked fresh debates over the opposition’s strategy.
Speaking to the media, Bhai Virendra said, “In my personal opinion, this time a representative from the minority community should be sent to the Rajya Sabha. We believe Hina Shahab is suitable for this role. This is just my view, and the party leadership should consider it.”
Meanwhile, AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman expressed displeasure at the idea of supporting Hina Shahab. He told reporters, “Why should we support RJD? This time we should have the opportunity to send our own representative. Instead of taking our support for granted, our voice should be heard.”
Iman’s remarks indicate that AIMIM is currently unwilling to extend support. Party chief Asaduddin Owaisi is also reportedly not inclined to agree to Hina Shahab’s candidacy.
In Bihar, a candidate requires 41 MLAs’ support to win a Rajya Sabha seat. The NDA currently enjoys the backing of 202 MLAs, virtually guaranteeing them at least four of the five seats.
However, the fifth seat hinges on the support of AIMIM’s five and BSP’s one MLA. The Mahagathbandhan holds 35 MLAs, making AIMIM’s support crucial for the opposition’s fifth-seat calculations.
Hina Shahab is the wife of the late former MP Shahabuddin, and her son Osama Shahab is a sitting RJD MLA. Political analysts suggest that her candidacy could help consolidate the Muslim vote bank.
Within the NDA, leaders Chirag Paswan, Upendra Kushwaha, and Jitan Ram Manjhi have also staked claims for the Rajya Sabha seats. The political scenario is becoming increasingly complex on both sides.
Analysts note that AIMIM’s stance and the Mahagathbandhan’s strategy regarding the fifth seat will be decisive. The battle for this seat is expected to intensify in the coming days.
