The All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) is actively preparing to strengthen its presence in Bihar ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections later this year. Party insiders reveal that meticulous planning is underway, with a keen focus on identifying the most suitable candidates to contest on the party’s ticket.

AIMIM's Electoral Journey in Bihar: A Mixed Bag of Success and Challenges

Having gained a foothold in Bihar’s political landscape, AIMIM sees the state as a key battleground after its ventures in Telangana and Maharashtra. In the 2020 Assembly elections, the party contested 20 seats and secured victory in five—Amour, Kochadhamam, Jokihat, Baisi, and Bahadurgunj. However, the party faced a major setback when four of its elected legislators defected to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), significantly weakening its influence.

Despite these challenges, AIMIM remains committed to its expansion. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, it contested from eight constituencies in Bihar. Unfortunately, the party failed to secure any wins, prompting a reassessment of its strategy for the upcoming polls.

Strategic Candidate Selection to Avoid Defections

Learning from past experiences, AIMIM is now approaching candidate selection with greater caution. Party sources indicate that efforts are being made to identify dedicated and trustworthy candidates who will remain loyal to the party and its vision. The defection of four MLAs in 2020 was a bitter lesson, and AIMIM intends to ensure history does not repeat itself.

A key part of the strategy includes focusing on constituencies where the party has historically performed well. Leaders within the party believe that by reinforcing their support base and selecting strong candidates, they can significantly improve their chances in the upcoming elections.

Seemanchal: The Key to AIMIM’s Prospects in Bihar

One of the primary regions where AIMIM is looking to expand its influence is Seemanchal, an area comprising the districts of Purnia, Katihar, Araria, and Kishanganj. The region, known for its large Muslim population, has traditionally supported the RJD and Congress. However, AIMIM has been steadily gaining ground, particularly after fielding 14 candidates in the Seemanchal region during the 2020 Assembly elections.

The party leadership believes that by consolidating its support in Seemanchal, AIMIM can emerge as a formidable force in Bihar’s political landscape. The party has been consistently working to build a strong grassroots presence in the region, focusing on issues relevant to the local population.

AIMIM’s Political Growth in Bihar Over the Last Decade

AIMIM’s journey in Bihar began in the 2015 Assembly elections when it contested six seats in Seemanchal, though without much success. However, the party persisted and made significant strides during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where its candidates emerged as strong contenders, often securing second place in several constituencies.

These incremental gains laid the foundation for AIMIM’s stronger performance in the 2020 Assembly elections. Now, the party aims to build upon this momentum and expand its reach even further in the upcoming elections.

Leadership’s Role in Strengthening AIMIM’s Bihar Unit

Nampally MLA Mohammed Majid Hussain, who is in charge of AIMIM’s Bihar affairs, is working closely with Akhtar ul Iman, the party’s Bihar president and current MLA from Amour. Together, they are formulating strategies to bolster the party’s presence and ensure its success in the state.

The leadership remains optimistic that with a well-planned approach, strategic candidate selection, and a strong focus on the Seemanchal region, AIMIM can emerge as a major political force in Bihar. As preparations continue, all eyes will be on how the party navigates the complex electoral landscape in the months to come.

With Bihar shaping up to be a crucial battleground, AIMIM’s approach and performance in the upcoming elections could significantly influence the state’s political future.