Is Bihar’s caste equation changing again in 2025? | Prof. Abdul Qadir explains

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Professor Abdul Qadir decodes the mood in Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly election. Speaking from Gaya, Qadir traces how caste, class, and community alliances are shifting—from the historical legacy of "backward-caste solidarity" to new anxieties among Muslim voters and the rise (and decline) of parties like All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen. He dissects the implications of political violence in Mokama, the controversies over voter roll deletions during the Special Intensive Revision, and the Election Commission of India's credibility crisis. With insights into Tejashwi Yadav’s campaign, the Mahagathbandhan’s prospects, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation’s growing influence, Qadir offers a ground-level view of how democracy and disenfranchisement are colliding in Bihar’s heartland. Highlights: -The legacy of Magadh’s backward-caste politics -The Mokama killing and OBC–forward caste polarisation -The voter list “survey” and election fairness debate -How Muslims weigh safety, survival, and political representation -Why Asaduddin Owaisi’s party may lose traction in Seemanchal -How Tejashwi Yadav shifted the campaign narrative -The strategic role of CPI(ML) and Left parties Perfect for: -Students of political science and sociology  -Journalists covering Bihar politics  -Researchers of caste and class dynamics in Indian democracy  -Viewers seeking analytical perspectives on Bihar’s 2025 elections Credits: Interview by: Anand Mishra Camera: Ranjan Rahi Editing: Razal Pareed Produced by: Team Frontline Originally published on Nov 3, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online.. Follow us on:  Facebook -    / frontlineindia   Twitter -     / frontline_india   Instagram -    / frontline.magazine   LinkedIn -   / frontline-magazine-b12921295