Congress to Part Ways with RJD in Bihar? Kharge’s Meeting with Six MLAs Sparks Speculation

Speculation over a possible split between the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in Bihar has intensified following a high-level meeting between Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and the party’s six Bihar MLAs in New Delhi. The meeting, held at the party headquarters in Indira Bhawan, brought temporary calm to rumours of a split within the Bihar Congress unit, even as it opened up fresh political debate.

For the past several days, the JD(U) and BJP had claimed that Congress MLAs were in touch with the NDA. However, the presence of all six legislators at the Delhi meeting effectively put an end to speculation about any immediate defection.

Discipline Dominates the Meeting

According to highly placed party sources, the issue of internal discipline dominated the discussion. Kharge reportedly expressed serious concern over conflicting public statements by party leaders and issued a stern warning.

He instructed state office-bearers and MLAs that only authorised leaders should speak to the media or on social platforms, and strictly in line with the official party position. Sources claimed Kharge made it clear that any violation of party discipline—regardless of stature—would invite strict action.

RJD Alliance Under Review

The most politically significant part of the meeting revolved around the future of the Congress–RJD alliance in Bihar. Kharge reportedly asked party leaders and MLAs whether the Congress should continue its alliance with RJD or contest elections independently in the state.

All six Congress MLAs are said to have expressed reservations about continuing the alliance, arguing that association with RJD had damaged the Congress’ image and resulted in poor electoral performance.

However, party sources revealed divisions among senior leaders on the issue. While some leaders favoured breaking away from RJD, others supported maintaining the alliance. Bihar Congress President Akhilesh Prasad Singh reportedly advocated continuing ties with RJD, describing the alliance as politically beneficial and necessary for Bihar.

Who Will Lead the Congress Legislature Party?

The meeting also discussed the appointment of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader in Bihar. Party leadership reportedly reviewed the political background and legislative experience of all six MLAs.

Sources indicated that the announcement of the CLP leader could be made later on Saturday. The frontrunners include Abidur Rahman, a three-time MLA with strong grassroots influence, particularly among minority voters, and Abhishek Ranjan, a first-time MLA who represents the party’s push for youthful leadership.

While Rahman’s experience gives him an edge, a section of the party is keen to promote younger leaders, leaving the final decision to the Congress high command.

Political Signals Ahead of Bihar Polls

The meeting has sent clear political signals ahead of future electoral battles in Bihar. While Congress has managed to project unity for now, the debate over its alliance strategy suggests that major political decisions could be imminent.