Bihar Election 2025: RJD Nominates Osama Shahab, Sparks Controversy

The political landscape in Bihar is heating up as the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has nominated Osama Shahab, son of the late RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, for the Raghunathpur Assembly constituency in the upcoming elections. This decision, announced on Thursday, has ignited a fierce backlash from rival parties, particularly the Janata Dal (United) (JDU), which criticized the alliance for allegedly failing to distance itself from its controversial past.

Controversial Nomination Draws Criticism

Sanjay Jha, a JDU Member of Parliament, expressed his discontent with the RJD’s choice, arguing that it underscores the party’s inability to move beyond the legacy of what he referred to as “Jungle Raj.” He stated, “For 15 years, these were the type of elements that became symbols of everything wrong. Because of such people, many left Bihar and went across the country and the world.”

Jha further emphasized that the nomination exemplifies a governance culture that led to significant lawlessness in the state, which he claims forced Biharis to seek better opportunities elsewhere. His remarks highlight a persistent sentiment among political leaders and the electorate regarding the impact of Shahabuddin’s legacy on Bihar’s reputation.

The controversy surrounding Osama Shahab’s candidacy is compounded by his father’s history. Mohammad Shahabuddin was a prominent political figure who faced numerous criminal charges during his career. He first entered the Lok Sabha in 1996 and served multiple terms, but his political legacy is marred by the serious allegations against him, which include murder and other violent crimes. He died in jail while serving a sentence.

RJD and Its Allies Respond

In response to the criticism, the RJD defended its decision to nominate Shahab, stating that Osama represents a new generation of leadership within the party. Lalu Prasad Yadav, the RJD chief, personally handed over the election symbol to Shahab, signaling the party’s commitment to his candidacy. Reports indicate that sitting MLA Hari Shankar Yadav voluntarily vacated his seat to facilitate Shahab’s nomination.

Interestingly, the RJD’s ally, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (CPI(ML)), which once led protests against Shahabuddin, has stated that it has “no dispute” with his family. This statement reflects the complex dynamics within the Mahagathbandhan, or Grand Alliance, as it prepares for the electoral battle.

As the Bihar Assembly elections approach, the RJD’s decision to field Osama Shahab may prove to be a double-edged sword. While it could rally support from Shahabuddin’s loyalists, it also risks alienating voters concerned about the implications of his family’s controversial history.

The election, scheduled for 2025, will serve as a significant test for the RJD and its allies as they attempt to present a united front while navigating the contentious legacy of past political figures. The RJD’s ability to address these concerns and present a compelling vision for Bihar’s future will be crucial in determining the outcome of this election.