Image Courtesy: inc.in
Ali Hasan|
The political scene in Bihar saw a shift as the “Voter Adhikar Yatra” kicked off on 17 August 2025, featuring a large rally that showcased the strength of the opposition coalition. While the Congress, RJD, Left, and smaller regional parties organized the event together, the mood on the ground revealed something different; the chants, cheers, and excitement largely focused on Rahul Gandhi.
The streets were filled with chants of “Rahul Gandhi Zindabad” and “Rahul Tum Aage Badho,” as thousands gathered, not just as supporters of a coalition, but as fans of the Congress leader himself. Rahul Gandhi, who has been building his image as a leader of the people, seemed to captivate the crowd in Bihar.
However, underneath this wave of support and emotional ties lies a political irony: the immediate winner of this crowd-drawing power seems to be Lalu Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), not the Congress.
RJD in Charge, Congress in Background
The rally was a joint effort, but the presence on the ground showed clear differences. RJD’s members and local leaders worked hard to bring in crowds, while Congress workers were not seen in large numbers. RJD’s banners, flags, and local support dominated the scene, highlighting its organizational strength in Bihar.
Many observers noted a familiar trend: Rahul Gandhi’s charm energizes the crowd, but in political terms, the regional partner—in this case, RJD—reaps the benefits. “Rahul Gandhi ke josh se RJD ko fayda hoga, Congress ko nahin,” said a local shopkeeper who attended the rally in Patna.
Left and Smaller Parties Contribute Support
To further strengthen the event, the Communist Party and other smaller regional groups joined the Yatra. Their participation broadened the opposition’s reach, signaling efforts to unite against the BJP-JD(U) alliance in Bihar. Leaders from CPI, CPI(M), and CPI(ML) attended in solidarity, emphasizing that voter rights and opposition unity were the main goals of this mobilization.
Rahul Gandhi: The Rally’s Center
Despite RJD’s clear organizational strength, Rahul Gandhi remained the focal point of emotion and attention. The crowd celebrated his arrival, interrupted his speech with applause, and connected with his calls for justice, jobs, and defense of democratic values. His growing acceptance among the youth of Bihar was clear, with college students and first-time voters holding placards with his image.
Political analysts believe this poses both a chance and a challenge for Congress. While Rahul Gandhi is effectively establishing himself as a national alternative, his party’s weak organizational presence in Bihar means that any immediate electoral success benefits RJD more.
The Political Paradox
On its first day, the Voter Adhikar Yatra presented a contradiction. The enthusiasm of the crowd revolved around Rahul, but the electoral advantage likely favors RJD. For Congress, the event confirmed its leader’s rising appeal, yet also highlighted the party’s ongoing organizational issues within Bihar politics.
As the Yatra continues across districts, one question remains: Can Congress turn Rahul Gandhi’s broad appeal into actual votes for its candidates, or will the benefit once again go to its regional ally?
For now, the message from Bihar’s streets is clear—Rahul Gandhi may draw the crowd, but the political gain belongs to RJD.
