Everyone’s eyes were on Araria seat in Bihar Assembly elections 2025. The reason was clear – former supercop, public favorite officer and social media icon Shivdeep Waghmare Lande had entered the electoral fray for the first time.
But after the results came, the picture turned out to be completely different. Lande, once known in Bihar for “fear of dacoits, protection of girls and control on crime”, could not leave much impact in this election.
Who is ahead, who is behind? – Full game of Araria seat
Till the counting of 29 out of 21 rounds was completed, the situation remained like this-
Abidur Rehman (INC) – 63,953 votes
Shagufta Azim (JDU) – 58,130
MD Manzoor Alam (AIMIM) – 35,692
Shivdeep W. Lande (Independent) – 3,591
While the candidates of the three main parties were seen garnering votes in tens of thousands, Shivdeep Lande lagged behind by 60,000 votes. This is a clear blow to his supporters.
1. ‘Hero Image’ vs. Election Mathematics
Lande’s popularity is very strong on social media and among the youth, but the election is based on grassroots networks, booth management and caste equations.
This time Lande lagged behind in all three aspects.
2. Big disadvantage of being an independent candidate
Contesting elections without a party means-
no strong organization
no cadre
no booth management
Micro-mobilization at the rural level
This proved to be a major weakness in a large and ethnically complex area like Araria.
3. Direct contest between Congress and JDU
The main fight on the seat had already become INC vs JDU.
AIMIM also took a cut of 35,000 votes, intensifying the three-way fight and leaving less room for Independents.
4. Difference between ‘Officer Lande’ and ‘Neta Lande’
Lande has the image of a strict, honest and sharp-witted IPS.
But when he emerged as a leader, people expected the same miraculous charisma from him –
Which was not possible in grassroots politics.
Despite the defeat, one thing is being heard everywhere-
“Lande Saheb is good, but the team was not there.”
“Excellent as an officer, it will take time to become a leader”
“Had I got a party ticket, the result would have been different.”
This response shows that his popularity has not diminished in the hearts of the public. Only a strong organization and strategy will be required for political ground success.