The Indian National Congress is facing mounting internal tension and political challenges as it prepares for the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for later this year. Following poor performances in the Delhi, Maharashtra, and Haryana elections, Congress finds itself in a crucial battle for both political survival and revival in Bihar. For years, the Congress party has largely depended on its alliance partner, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), while playing a secondary role in Bihar politics. However, recent developments have revealed internal conflicts, leadership disputes, and growing unease with the party's evolving strategy. The state’s new in-charge, Krishna Allavaru, has yet to fully establish control over the state's Congress unit, adding to the party’s uncertainty. Alleged power struggles and dissatisfaction among party members have resulted in discontent over recent decisions.
 

One major controversy stems from Kanhaiya Kumar's increasing prominence within the Bihar Congress. Having contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Begusarai on a CPI ticket and later joined Congress for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Kanhaiya Kumar’s involvement has created friction within the state unit. Keen to establish his influence in Bihar politics, Kanhaiya has been actively engaging with local communities and promoting campaigns to solidify his presence. His recent campaign, titled "Palayan Roko, Rozgar Do" (Stop Migration, Provide Employment), was announced during a press conference alongside Krishna Allavaru in Patna. The campaign, scheduled to run from March 16 to April 14, aims to highlight unemployment and labor migration issues in Bihar. However, this announcement triggered criticism from some Congress leaders who were reportedly unaware of the campaign's launch. A senior party leader expressed frustration, questioning why key members were left out of the decision-making process. The timing of the walkathon has also stirred controversy, as it coincides with the holy month of Ramzan, during which several Muslim leaders have voiced concerns. Since the walkathon’s route passes through over a dozen districts with significant Muslim populations, some leaders urged Congress to postpone the campaign to March 30 to avoid potential backlash.
 

Adding to Congress's internal woes, Kanhaiya Kumar’s supporters chanting slogans projecting him as Bihar's next Chief Minister during his Patna visit further strained ties with the RJD. This public display fueled speculation that Congress might be promoting Kanhaiya Kumar’s leadership, potentially undermining the Congress-RJD alliance. The RJD leadership reportedly conveyed its concerns to Congress leaders, warning that such actions could jeopardize ongoing seat-sharing negotiations for the Bihar elections. RJD leaders have criticized Congress for alienating allies and highlighted the fallout in Delhi as an example of strained partnerships. Meanwhile, a key strategy meeting involving Bihar Congress leaders scheduled in Delhi was postponed to March 18, further delaying discussions on election planning. With Congress facing internal divisions, leadership tensions, and strained relations with the RJD, the party's preparation for the Bihar Assembly elections appears fraught with challenges. The growing influence of Kanhaiya Kumar, the mishandling of alliances, and unresolved grievances within the party risk weakening Congress's chances in the crucial Bihar elections. As the countdown to the polls continues, Congress must urgently address its internal discord and redefine its electoral strategy to avoid further setbacks.