Phulwari Assembly Election 2025: JD(U)’s Shyam Rajak vs CPI(ML)(L)’s Gopal Ravi Das in a Pivotal SC Seat

The Phulwari (SC) Assembly constituency in Patna district has emerged as one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in the Bihar Assembly Election 2025, featuring a direct contest between JD(U)'s Shyam Rajak representing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and CPI(ML)(L)'s Gopal Ravi Das from the Mahagathbandhan.

The seat reflects Bihar's broader political contest between the NDA, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United), and the Mahagathbandhan, led by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Indian National Congress (INC), with support from Left parties such as the CPI, CPI(M) and CPI(ML).

Shyam Rajak: JD(U)'s Veteran Leader Carrying NDA's Flag

Representing the NDA, Shyam Rajak, aged 71, is one of Bihar's senior-most political figures, known for his long legislative career and several ministerial roles. A commerce graduate from Patna University in 1975, Rajak has been active in public life for decades and holds considerable influence among Dalit voters in Patna and surrounding regions.

According to his election affidavit, Rajak has declared assets worth ₹5.14 crore and liabilities of ₹51.95 lakh. His property portfolio includes multiple residential buildings in Patna valued at over ₹3 crore, several vehicles including a Honda City and Tata Safari, and jewellery worth around ₹79 lakh. His main source of income is pension, with an annual declared income of ₹17.26 lakh for the financial year 2024-25.

Rajak faces four pending criminal cases that include charges of attempt to murder, rioting, and criminal intimidation, though he has not been convicted in any. Over the years, he has switched parties, moving from RJD to JD(U) and back before rejoining Nitish Kumar's leadership in recent years.

Campaigning for the NDA, Rajak has promised continued development in Phulwari, with a focus on better urban infrastructure, housing and Dalit welfare. "My commitment is to dignity, education and opportunity for every family in Phulwari," he said during a recent public rally.

Gopal Ravi Das: CPI(ML)(L)'s Grassroots Candidate Backed by Mahagathbandhan

From the Mahagathbandhan, Gopal Ravi Das, aged 56, is contesting as the CPI(ML)(L) candidate, representing the alliance's Left front. The son of Late Mohan Ravidas, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Patna University, earned in 1987. Ravi Das has been associated with grassroots social movements, particularly in Masaurhi and central Bihar.

As per his election affidavit, Ravi Das has declared assets worth ₹21.24 lakh and no liabilities, reflecting a modest financial background. His declared assets include a 630 sq. ft. inherited residential property, a 2021 Scorpio vehicle, small jewellery holdings and limited bank deposits. He also owns licensed firearms including a rifle and a revolver.

Ravi Das has one pending criminal case registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to unlawful assembly and intimidation. He has no convictions. His spouse works at a medical centre in Masaurhi, and the family has no other declared income.

Ravi Das has focused his campaign on social justice, employment and empowerment for the working class and Dalit communities. "This election is about giving voice to workers, Dalits and farmers who have long been ignored in policy decisions," he told voters during a campaign event.

Phulwari: A Crucial Seat Reflecting Bihar's Dalit and Urban Pulse

Phulwari, reserved for Scheduled Castes, is among the most politically active constituencies in Patna district. The seat has often shifted between the JD(U) and Left-backed candidates, reflecting the region's mixed urban and rural voter base.

The NDA is banking on its existing support among Dalits, Kurmis and urban voters, emphasizing Nitish Kumar's record on governance and welfare. The Mahagathbandhan, on the other hand, is relying on its core coalition of RJD and the Left to consolidate working-class, backward-caste and minority votes.

Political observers believe the Phulwari result could be a key indicator of how Scheduled Caste voters are responding to Nitish Kumar's developmental agenda compared to the Left's social equity message.

With Shyam Rajak's decades of experience facing off against Gopal Ravi Das's grassroots activism, the Phulwari (SC) seat has become one of Bihar's most intriguing electoral contests of 2025. The outcome here may reveal which political narrative - development and governance or equality and empowerment - resonates more strongly with the state's changing electorate.