In the dynamic realm of Indian politics, Nitish Kumar has once again taken center stage. Orchestrating a significant shift that has left political observers and Bihar’s citizens in anticipation. As the political landscape in the state undergoes a transformation, Nitish Kumar is poised to be sworn in as Chief Minister for the seventh time, supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This move marks another chapter in his long and often unpredictable political career.
The latest episode in Nitish Kumar’s political journey began with a series of strategic moves that caught many by surprise. His refusal to join Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ and subsequent outreach to the BJP has set the stage for a renewed alliance. Sources suggest that Nitish Kumar’s return to the Chief Minister’s office will come with the support of the BJP, which, in turn, will be rewarded with two Deputy Chief Minister berths – a familiar arrangement reminiscent of the post-2020 election scenario.
Contrary to expectations, the Bihar Assembly will not be dissolved at this point, and there will be no immediate election. With Bihar scheduled to vote next year, both Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the BJP seem to be in no hurry to dissolve the assembly, signaling a focus on the upcoming Lok Sabha election.
Sources reveal that Nitish Kumar’s return to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) follows a well-thought-out plan. The process is expected to commence with the nomination of an Assembly Speaker and include a cabinet reshuffle, allocating ministerial berths in proportion to party strength. Crucially, the terms of Nitish’s return reportedly include a reduction in Lok Sabha seats offered to the Janata Dal (United), reflecting the changed political dynamics and the need to accommodate other NDA partners.
While Nitish Kumar’s realignment with the BJP is yet to be officially confirmed, comments from his former deputy and close aide, Sushil Kumar Modi, hint at the possibility. Modi’s statement that “in politics, doors are not permanently closed” suggests the fluid nature of political alliances and the potential for unexpected developments. As a Rajya Sabha MP, Modi has been a vocal critic of Nitish Kumar since their apparent falling out, making his recent “open doors” remark all the more significant.
The potential BJP-JDU reunion has evoked mixed reactions within Bihar’s political landscape. Lalan Singh, recently removed as the JDU boss by Nitish Kumar, is reportedly against severing ties with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), while a faction led by Sanjay Jha and Ashok Choudhary advocates for a collaboration with the BJP.
Adding to the complexity, former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and his Hindustan Awam Morcha, currently a JDU ally, are reportedly being courted by the BJP. Nityanand Rai, the junior Union Home Minister, is said to be tasked with securing this alliance. Manjhi, while cryptic about his future moves, has hinted at the possibility of Nitish Kumar contesting the Lok Sabha elections independently or joining another alliance.
The uncertainty surrounding Nitish Kumar’s political moves has led to divisions within his own party. The reported friction with the RJD, exacerbated by social media posts from Lalu Yadav’s daughter, Rohini Acharya, and discord within the INDIA group, has added an extra layer of complexity. Notably, Nitish Kumar name was reportedly snubbed as both a Prime Ministerial candidate and Convenor within the INDIA group.
As speculations grow regarding Nitish Kumar’s potential departure from the alliance with the RJD. Bihar BJP President Samrat Choudhary and former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi have headed to Delhi. Likely to meet Home Minister Amit Shah. The talks on Nitish’s exit gained momentum after he expressed gratitude to. The Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for awarding Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur.
Nitish’s acknowledgment of the Centre’s decision and his criticism of the INDIA. Alliance’s failure to accept his demand for Bharat Ratna for Thakur add another layer to the unfolding political drama. His emphasis on Thakur’s socialist values and disapproval of dynastic politics. Seemingly directed at the Congress and RJD, underscores the complexities within the alliance.
As the suspense surrounding Nitish Kumar’s next move continues, Sushil Modi emphasized. That the final decision on Nitish return would be made by the central leadership. His statement, “The Bihar BJP is with the Centre’s decision. Will accept the decision of the central leadership,” highlights the hierarchical nature of decision-making within the party.
Sushil Modi, who previously suggest that BJP door were close for Nitish, commend. The Chief Minister for his stance against dynastic politics. Meanwhile, BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj predicted the demise of the INDIA. Alliance and hinted at Nitish’s return to the BJP, stating, “If Nitish (Kumar) comes to BJP then it will benefit him. The party’s heart is very big.”
While the RJD remains publicly optimistic about Nitish Kumar’s continued alliance. The political landscape in Bihar remains fluid and subject to change. The coming days will likely witness further developments and unveil the next chapter in Nitish Kumar’s intricate political narrative.
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In conclusion, Nitish Kumar’s return to the Chief Minister’s office with BJP support marks a pivotal moment in Bihar’s politics. The intricacies of the alliances, the shifting loyalties, and the internal divisions within the JDU. Make this political saga a fascinating spectacle to watch. As Bihar braces for another round of political realignment. The seventh term of Nitish Kumar is poised to shape the state’s political trajectory in the days to come.
