Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part A (2022)

Bihar’s political landscape has long been recognized as a critical site for understanding the interplay between caste, coalition politics, and democracy in India. Since the Mandal Commission era of the 1990s, caste-based mobilization has not only shaped electoral outcomes but also determined the organizational strategies of political parties. Simultaneously, coalition politics has emerged as a defining feature of the state, with shifting alliances between the Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal, Bharatiya Janata Party, and smaller regional forces reflecting both the adaptability and fragility of Bihar’s democracy. This paper examines how caste continues to structure political loyalties, how coalition politics has influenced governance and accountability, and what these dynamics imply for the future of democracy in Bihar. It argues that while caste politics has expanded representation for marginalized communities and coalition governments have facilitated power-sharing, these trends have also perpetuated instability and short-term electoral bargaining. Through an analysis of electoral data, party manifestos, and secondary literature, the study highlights both the achievements and limitations of Bihar’s democratic trajectory. The paper concludes by suggesting that the future of democracy in Bihar depends on whether politics can transition from identity-driven coalitions to issue-based agendas centered on development, governance, and youth aspirations.