The political temperature in Bihar has surged ahead of the 2025 assembly elections after RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav declared himself the Chief Ministerial face of the INDIA bloc in the state. Tejashwi claimed that a “mutual consensus” had been reached within the alliance regarding his leadership.

However, his bold proclamation drew immediate pushback from Congress, a key ally, and sharp jibes from the ruling JDU. The unfolding drama has exposed internal fault lines within the INDIA alliance.

Congress Shrugs Off Tejashwi’s Announcement

Reacting to Tejashwi’s statement, Bihar Congress President Rajesh Kumar made it clear that no decision has been taken yet on the CM candidate. He emphasized that the alliance’s primary goal is to defeat the BJP and not to race ahead with post-election power claims.

“The INDIA bloc has not finalized any CM face yet. Discussions are ongoing, and the focus is on unity, not personality,” Rajesh said, subtly rebuking Tejashwi’s self-endorsement.

Political observers believe this was a message from the Congress to rein in Tejashwi, who is seen by some alliance partners as trying to dominate the coalition narrative in Bihar.

JDU Takes a Swipe: “Self-Praise Mode Activated”

The ruling Janata Dal United (JDU) didn’t miss the opportunity to strike. Party spokesperson Neeraj Kumar mocked Tejashwi’s unilateral declaration by saying:

“Rahul Gandhi doesn’t even like seeing Tejashwi’s face. He visits Bihar but avoids meeting him. Now Tejashwi is becoming ‘Mian Mithu’ and declaring himself the hero.”

Neeraj went on to quip, “This is like ‘Man na man main tera mehmaan’—self-invitation to a party no one planned.”

Political Strategy or Pressure Tactic?

Tejashwi’s move is being seen by analysts as a calculated political ploy—either to test public reaction or to pressure alliance partners into accepting his leadership as a non-negotiable factor in Bihar. Some speculate this is also aimed at reminding the Congress and other allies of RJD’s numerical dominance in the state opposition camp.

What Did Tejashwi Say?

In an interview with TV9, Tejashwi confidently said:

“I am the face of the CM. INDIA alliance has agreed. Our government will form in Bihar, and we will make it the Scotland of the East.”

He also took aim at BJP, calling its leaders “Chintu” and accusing them of spreading communal politics.