Bihar's political scene once again made history on Thursday as Nitish Kumar was sworn in for a record tenth term as the state's Chief Minister. However, the centerpiece of the ceremony was not the oath itself; it was the 'bonding' displayed on stage between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar. While this bonding may remind opponents of the bitterness between PM Modi and Nitish back in 2010, it served another crucial purpose.
The strengthening ties between both leaders conveyed a robust political message of stability and trust among the people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attending Nitish Kumar's swearing-in ceremony for the first time, concluded his visit at Patna's Gandhi Maidan by waving his iconic scarf in the air.
This gesture, characteristic of Modi's public appearances, resounded with applause from the audience as he boarded his helicopter afterwards. This scene highlighted the emotional connection between PM Modi and the people of Bihar.
PM Modi's Congratulations and Political Signals
Nitish Kumar took his oath of office and secrecy from Governor Arif Mohammad Khan at 11:30 AM. Shortly after, Prime Minister Modi extended his congratulations on the social media platform X, writing that congratulations to Mr. Nitish Kumar for taking the oath as Bihar's Chief Minister. He is an experienced administrator with a longstanding track record of good governance. Best wishes for his upcoming term.
Source: aajtak
During the oath-taking ceremony at Gandhi Maidan, the body language of PM Modi and Nitish Kumar became a topic of political conversation. The chemistry between these two leaders dispelled numerous speculations among opponents.
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New Political Chemistry on the Stage
On the stage, PM Modi met Nitish Kumar with joy and ease. He warmly greeted and shook hands with the newly appointed ministers and legislators. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar appeared emotional while greeting PM Modi. Their demeanor showcased the excitement the two leaders felt about the strengthening of their relationship.
The most significant moment came when an old bitterness from 2010 became a thing of the past. Once hesitant to raise a hand in camaraderie, Nitish Kumar stood with PM Modi after the oath, raising their joined hands joyously. This image sent a direct message to the public that "The partnership of Modi and Nitish is a hit."
Together, the duo demonstrated their bond from the stage. Both PM Modi and Nitish Kumar looked genuinely pleased, presenting each other to the public. While Modi seemed delighted to meet Nitish, Nitish Kumar proudly showcased PM Modi to the people, akin to introducing a cherished ally. This bonding conveyed a clear message that the connection between the center and the state will now proceed strongly and steadily.
The 2010 Event: From Bitterness to Harmony
Understanding the bond displayed between PM Modi and Nitish Kumar requires revisiting the 2010 event, considered a dark chapter in political history.
Following the NDA's loss in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections under Lal Krishna Advani's leadership, an NDA rally was held in 2010 in Ludhiana. On stage, then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi unexpectedly raised Nitish Kumar's hand, signaling good relations.
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Post-rally, Nitish Kumar publicly expressed shock, stating he was unaware that Modi would act in such a manner and, given the public setting, he felt compelled to remain silent. Before the 2010 Bihar Assembly elections, a full-page advertisement featuring this 'hand-raising' image of Modi and Nitish was published by the BJP in Bihar newspapers.
Deeply displeased, Nitish Kumar publicly reprimanded it and canceled a dinner he had arranged for BJP executives, causing embarrassment for Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders.
Patna Ceremony as a Symbol of New Beginnings
On Thursday at Gandhi Maidan, the joyous raising of hands between Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar symbolizes the end of the 2010 political bitterness and the dawn of a new, mature political relationship.
Source: aajtak
Following Nitish Kumar's swearing-in as Chief Minister, Samrat Chowdhary and Vijay Sinha were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. The new cabinet also included experienced leaders like Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Mangal Panday, Dilip Jaiswal, Shravan Kumar, and Bijendra Yadav.
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Before departing the venue, PM Modi congratulated all newly appointed members. This swearing-in ceremony was not just an occasion for government formation but a message that the country's two major political figures have now set aside personal differences for stability and a strong alliance.
