As elections draw near in Bihar, political heat intensifies. Be it NDA or the INDIA alliance, both are fervently trying to secure their faction. At the center of this political storm is Bihar’s Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, whose potential shift of allegiance becomes the topic of speculation with each election season. Recent political developments make it evident that Nitish's role will be crucial in the upcoming elections.
Recently, RJD supremo Lalu Yadav extended an invitation to Nitish to join the INDIA alliance, even suggesting forgiveness. Meanwhile, on Thursday, his son Tejashwi Yadav declared an intent to oust Nitish from power. These conflicting statements have publicly exposed RJD's internal confusion. Tejashwi later clarified Lalu’s statement was merely to appease the media.
To whom does Nitish Kumar belong?
The contradictory statements from Lalu and Tejashwi presented the ruling alliance with an opportunity to attack. JD(U) leader Lalan Singh clearly stated that Nitish Kumar is with the NDA and will remain so, while targeting Lalu Yadav. On the other hand, BJP labeled Lalu’s remarks as a sign of RJD’s weakness. Meanwhile, Congress showcased a soft corner for Nitish, with party leader Shakeel Ahmad hailing him as a Gandhian leader. Ahmad further stated that Nitish follows Gandhi's principles.
The question arises, what is RJD’s true stance on Nitish? Efforts are being made to bring him into their camp while simultaneously aiming to oust him from power. Both RJD and BJP know that ruling Bihar without Nitish is inconceivable; the political equations will align wherever JD(U) is.
RJD parted ways with BJP
Reflecting on past elections like 2020, RJD was the leading party with 75 seats in the 243-seat Bihar Assembly. BJP secured 74 seats, JD(U) 43 seats, while Congress was limited to 19 seats. By forming alliances with smaller parties, NDA won 125 seats and achieved a majority, appointing Nitish as CM despite fewer seats. Similarly, in 2015, when Nitish was with RJD, the 'Grand Alliance' triumphed with Tejashwi Yadav as the Deputy CM. However, in 2017 JD(U) left the alliance and Nitish joined hands with BJP to form the government.
Past outcomes simple: the camp with Nitish Kumar forms the government in Bihar. Consequently, both BJP and RJD have repeatedly appointed Nitish as the Chief Minister, despite JD(U) winning fewer seats. He has taken the oath as CM 9 times, varying between alliances with BJP and RJD.
Sometimes soft, sometimes harsh on Nitish
With the 2025 elections looming, RJD desires to bring Nitish into their fold but doesn’t want to appear weak either. Given that if Nitish joins, the Grand Alliance will surely strengthen. However, if he contests alongside NDA, RJD will need to confront him. JD(U) leaders have been adamant that this election will be fought under Nitish’s leadership, making the opposition’s task to target the CM straightforward.
Despite what RJD desires, Nitish Kumar remains the real player. When questioned about Lalu’s offer on Thursday, Nitish merely smiled and walked away silently. During the swearing-in of Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, both Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav and CM Nitish Kumar exchanged cordiality. Tejashwi stood with folded hands smiling, while Nitish placed a hand on his shoulder in blessing. Internally, Tejashwi’s stance towards Nitish seemed softer, but his external statements were sharp. The Bihar elections harbor the next political moves amidst this blend of softness and harshness.
