A joint press conference of the Grand Alliance was held in Patna, Bihar's capital, on Thursday. Thirteen days before the first phase of voting, a stage set up at Maurya Hotel in Patna featured 11 chairs and a large backdrop with election symbols of all coalition parties, accompanied by a prominent picture of Tejashwi Yadav. This image symbolized the commitment that if the Grand Alliance triumphs, Tejashwi Yadav would be the chosen Chief Minister candidate.
In acknowledgment of being declared the CM candidate, Tejashwi Yadav expressed gratitude towards the constituent parties of the alliance. This declaration arrives amid significant discussions of internal ruptures, as candidates from allied parties contest in 10 constituencies, leading to growing murmurs of division. The timing closely coincides with the first joint rally of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary voiced predictable skepticism, alleging that Lalu Yadav would not confer power outside his family, accusing him of leveraging influence to favor his son’s candidacy. He suggested these moves underscore a promotion of dynasty.
Opposition figures like Giriraj Singh derisively noted that Lalu Yadav pleaded tirelessly to secure enthusiasm for his sons, revealing a self-serving tactic. As Prashant Kishor observed cynically, whispers of 'Jungle Raj' resurface as connected to Tejashwi’s prospective leadership.
Unveiling strategies, promoting Tejashwi capitalizes on potential consolidation of Yadav votes, reinforced by Mukesh Sahani designated Deputy CM to court Nishad vote bank. Further intrigue emerges with a suspenseful additional Deputy CM post to galvanize broader appeal.
A strategic focus arises on projected opposition challenges— articulating a distinct query, 'Tejashwi versus who?' adds a narrative twist. Tejashwi’s altered tone towards Nitish Kumar argues injustice, emphasizing BJP's commitment doubts, pointing to Amit Shah’s statements on candidate elections by MLAs.
The Electoral Past of the Last Two Decades:
Historically, Nitish Kumar is synonymous with governance consistency, attributed largely to his influence over Kurmi and Koiri voter segments alongside a substantial share in backward voter allegiance, pivotal in shaping outcomes.
Read More: What gains and loses for the Grand Alliance selecting Tejashwi?
Tejashwi frames skepticism around Nitish’s continuation as CM under NDA, probing perceived ambivalence in BJP's support, referencing Amit Shah, cultivating a narrative on the divergence from formal CM endorsement.
Read More: 'End of Grand Alliance,' speculates Chirag, reacts to CM face decision.
Giraraj Singh reiterates Nitish’s status, prompting rhetorical questions on NDA’s strategic declaration. As challenges emerge, should NDA rethink open affirmation about Nitish Kumar's leadership tenure?
