Kishanganj: The Kochadhaman Assembly constituency in Bihar’s Seemanchal region has become the focus of statewide attention ahead of the November 11 polls. With Muslims making up around 72 percent of its voters, the outcome in this seat is expected to influence the political mood across Seemanchal and beyond.
In the 2020 elections, Mohammad Izhar Asfi of the All India Majlis Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won a decisive victory over the Janata Dal (United) candidate Mujahid Alam by over 36,000 votes, marking AIMIM’s strong debut in Bihar. The victory gave local Muslims a sense of representation in the state’s political system.
However, AIMIM’s presence weakened after four of its five MLAs joined the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). This time, AIMIM faces a tough challenge from both RJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Asfi is contesting again for AIMIM, while RJD has fielded former MLA Mujahid Alam. The BJP has entered the fray with Veena Devi, hoping to benefit from a potential division of Muslim votes.
Residents say the contest must focus on real issues like unemployment, poor roads, and the lack of healthcare and education. Local teacher Rukhsana Begum said that most youth leave for Delhi and Mumbai for work, while politicians disappear after elections.
Observers believe whoever unites Muslim voters will decide the fate of Kochadhaman. The result will be a test of Muslim political unity and could shape Bihar’s broader electoral landscape.
