Bihar Elections 2025: Congress Releases 40 Star Campaigners List

The Congress party has unveiled a list of 40 prominent campaigners for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections in 2025. This move aims to boost its presence in the state, where it is part of the opposition INDIA bloc. The list includes influential national and regional figures, highlighting the party's strategy to strengthen its position.

Among the notable names are Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Ashok Gehlot. They are expected to lead dynamic rallies and engage with the public in key areas. Their involvement underscores Congress's commitment to making a significant impact in Bihar.

Key Leaders and Campaign Strategy

The list also features a diverse mix of senior leaders, youth icons, and regional strategists such as Sachin Pilot, Bhupesh Baghel, Gaurav Gogoi, Kanhaiya Kumar, Jignesh Mevani, Digvijay Singh, and Ranjeet Ranjan. This blend aims to appeal to various demographics across Bihar.

Rahul Gandhi is set to hold major public meetings in Patna, Gaya, and Darbhanga. Meanwhile, Kharge and Sonia Gandhi will focus on events that highlight social justice and employment opportunities. This approach seeks to resonate with voters' core concerns.

Youth Engagement and Rural Outreach

Congress insiders reveal that including younger leaders like Pilot and Kanhaiya Kumar signals a focus on engaging youth and empowering rural communities. The leadership believes this combination of national prominence and grassroots connection can challenge the ruling NDA's organisational strength.

The official launch of Congress's Bihar election campaign will occur after Chhath Puja. Rahul Gandhi will lead the INDIA bloc's efforts during his visit on October 29-30. Senior leader KC Venugopal confirmed this timeline while emphasising the momentum gained from earlier initiatives like the Voter Adhikar Yatra.

Leadership Camps and Internal Challenges

Venugopal is among a core group of strategists stationed in Bihar to refine campaign strategies and address internal issues. Reports indicate challenges within the state unit regarding ticket distribution have surfaced. Efforts are underway to manage these concerns effectively.

Ashok Gehlot addressed reports of dissent over candidate selection by urging unity among party members. "In every election, there are many aspirants for tickets. I urge those who feel left out to set aside grievances for now," he stated, stressing the high stakes involved as national attention focuses on Bihar.

Criticism of Nitish Kumar and BJP

Gehlot criticised Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for losing credibility due to frequent political shifts. "Once seen as prime minister material, Nitish Kumar has now exhausted public trust," he remarked. Gehlot also accused the BJP of misusing funds from defunct electoral bonds to influence voters through pre-election schemes.

He highlighted recent direct transfers of ₹10,000 to one crore women in Bihar as an attempt to sway votes. Additionally, Gehlot alleged that opposition leaders face harassment over minor financial matters while BJP's spending goes unchecked.

Bihar Election Phases

The Bihar Assembly elections will occur in two phases: November 6 and November 11. Results are expected on November 14. Phase 1 covers key districts in southern and central Bihar where Congress aims to consolidate support alongside its INDIA bloc partners.

With its star campaigner list ready, Congress faces the challenge of translating national visibility into grassroots momentum ahead of one of India's most competitive state elections in recent years.