Bihar politics is heating up as the next assembly elections approach. One of the most important groups of voters in the state are the Extremely Backward Classes, or EBCs. They make up about 36 per cent of Bihar’s population. Historically, this community has supported Nitish Kumar and his party, JD(U). However, Rahul Gandhi and the Mahagathbandhan (MGB) are now trying to attract EBC voters, offering new promises and benefits. The outcome could decide the future of the state government.
Last week, the MGB launched a campaign called ‘Atipichhda Nyay Sankalp’. It is a 10-point plan for the EBCs. The plan promises to pass a law to prevent violence and discrimination against EBCs, similar to the SC/ST Act. It also proposes to increase reservation for EBCs from 20 per cent to 30 per cent in local bodies like panchayats and municipal corporations. Additionally, it suggests separate quotas for EBCs in educational institutions and government jobs.
Even though EBCs are 36 per cent of Bihar’s population, their political representation is low. Hindu EBCs hold only 12 per cent of MLA seats and 15 per cent of MP positions. This shows that the community is underrepresented despite their large numbers. Part of the reason is that EBCs are very divided. There are 113 different caste groups within the EBC category—82 Hindu and 31 Muslim. Only five groups have more than two per cent of the population each. Because of this fragmentation, it is hard for the community to act as one political bloc.
In previous elections, EBCs were not given enough tickets by political parties. In the 2020 Bihar assembly elections, the NDA gave only 17 per cent of tickets to EBC candidates, and the MGB gave just 9 per cent. This was much lower than their 26 per cent share of the Hindu population. Even in Nitish Kumar’s government, only 19 per cent of cabinet positions were held by EBCs. Many in the community feel neglected and believe their votes have not translated into proper political power.
This underrepresentation has created an opportunity for Rahul Gandhi and the MGB. Educated EBC voters are starting to question whether their loyalty to Nitish Kumar and JD(U) has benefited them. The MGB hopes to win over this community by offering new promises and visible leadership positions. For example, the RJD made Magnilal Mandal the first EBC State President to appeal directly to the community.
Nitish Kumar has been a key leader for EBCs for decades. He introduced 20 per cent reservation for EBCs in local bodies, which built strong loyalty among the voters. In the past, EBCs supported him consistently. For example, in the 2015 elections, about 55 per cent of EBCs backed Nitish Kumar and his allies. But this support is now being tested, as some voters feel the community still does not have enough political power or representation.
For Rahul Gandhi and the MGB, the challenge is to convince EBC voters that their promises are real and not just electoral tactics. Symbolic gestures will not be enough. The alliance must show a serious commitment through ticket allocation, leadership roles, and policies that reflect the community’s demographic importance. Many EBCs are small business owners or self-employed, so law and order is also a critical issue for them. Past neglect has made the community sceptical, and winning their trust will require more than speeches—it will need consistent action and planning.
ALSO READ: Coffee on empty stomach? AIIMS doctor warns against these coffee habits
The EBC vote is important because it can act as a deciding factor in many constituencies. This community is large enough to influence the overall outcome of the elections. Their decision may not only shape the next government in Bihar but could also set an example for caste-based political mobilisation in other states of the Hindi heartland.
For Nitish Kumar, retaining EBC loyalty is about continuing his past policies and showing that the community’s support leads to real representation. For Rahul Gandhi, gaining EBC support requires offering credible promises and demonstrating that the Mahagathbandhan is committed to empowering the community. The next election will show whether demographic strength can finally lead to political empowerment for EBCs, or whether traditional underrepresentation will continue.
The stakes are high. If the EBC voters shift their support, it could challenge the dominance of the NDA and create a major political change in Bihar. The key will be how parties address the concerns of the EBC community and whether voters feel their voices are being heard. Their choice will shape not only Bihar’s political future but also influence how large communities engage in politics across India.
Copyright © © 2022 Copyright. All Rights Reserved with Arth Parkash