Bihar Assembly elections | CPI(ML) rejects RJD's 19-seat offer, says all options open

New Delhi: The CPI(ML)L on Monday 'outrightly' rejected an offer to contest 19 seats in the Bihar Assembly elections, as part of the RJD-led alliance.

The CPI(ML)L leaders called the offer an 'attack on its dignity' and said 'all options are open' for the party, which won 12 out of 19 seats in 2020 with a vote share of 3.16%.

Meanwhile, the CPI(M) and CPI are upset with the repeat offer of 10 seats together by the RJD. Sources also indicated Congress has settled for 54-55 seats even though it is trying to coerce the RJD to give it another 8-10 seats.

Sources said the CPI(ML)L has conveyed its strong displeasure to the RJD. The party submitted a fresh list, highlighting its demand for around 30 seats.

CPI(ML)L sources said a decision on the future course of action will depend on the decision RJD takes on the revised list being shared soon.

The party leaders told DH that they cannot compromise on the dignity of the party. “Giving us seats means a sure shot victory. If they want to win, they should accept the revised list,” a senior leader said.

In 2020, the CPI(ML)L had entered the Mahagadbandhan at the last minute. While it was planning to field 30 candidates, it contested only 19 seats.

CPI(ML)L had won six seats with a vote share of 2.5% in 2000 in undivided Bihar and had won seats since then, except in 2010.

In 2005, CPI(ML)L had won five seats with a vote share of 2.37% while five years later drew a blank with vote share also decreasing to 1.54%. Contesting alone in 2015, it won three seats with a vote share of 1.54%. However, in 2020, it grabbed 12 seats with a vote share of 3.16%.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the CPI(ML)L won both seats it contested.