Patna, Bihar, India: The outcome of the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections has once again brought disappointment for the Mahagathbandhan. Early trends and updated numbers show that voters across the state are strongly favoring the NDA. Candidates from the BJP and JD(U) are leading in several constituencies and have comfortably crossed the majority mark. With the NDA positioned ahead in 190 out of 243 seats, the people of Bihar appear to have delivered a decisive mandate.

For Tejashwi Yadav, considered one of the prominent young faces in Bihar politics, this result means yet another missed opportunity to secure the Chief Minister’s post. Since 2017, this becomes the third significant moment when he came close but could not achieve the top position. Despite serving twice as the Deputy Chief Minister, political developments each time prevented him from moving up to the CM’s chair.

The 2017 Turning Point

Tejashwi had a real possibility of rising to the CM position in 2017. The RJD, JD(U), and Congress had formed the Mahagathbandhan after the 2015 elections, with Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister and Tejashwi as his deputy. However, Nitish Kumar abruptly withdrew from the alliance, citing corruption allegations against Tejashwi. Soon after, JD(U) returned to the NDA fold. With this sudden shift, Tejashwi not only lost his position but also saw his best chance of becoming CM slip away.

Congress’ Setback in 2020 Proved Costly

Tejashwi’s second major opportunity came during the 2020 Assembly Elections. His campaign focused heavily on unemployment issues and the promise of creating 10 lakh jobs. Although the RJD secured 75 seats and emerged as the largest party, Congress—an important ally—performed poorly, winning only 19 seats. This weak showing cost the alliance multiple crucial constituencies. As a result, the NDA managed to hold power with 125 seats, leaving Tejashwi just a few steps short of leading the state once again.