Emergency Meeting Called by Tejashwi Yadav Amidst Speculation Over Nitish Kumar’s Resignation

Patna, 27th January 2024: In response to widespread speculation surrounding the potential resignation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his rumoured collaboration with the BJP and Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) HAM(S), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has called for an urgent meeting in Patna. The political landscape in Bihar is undergoing a significant shift, with the Assembly Speaker poised to demand Nitish Kumar’s demonstration of majority support.

Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav has taken proactive measures, convening an emergency meeting at his official residence on 5 Circular Road in Patna. The meeting has been strategically arranged, with Bihar Assembly Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary being specifically invited to participate. Tejashwi Yadav is reportedly determined to prevent Nitish Kumar’s potential return as chief minister, exploring possible alliances with the BJP and HAMS.

The numerical dynamics in Bihar have assumed heightened importance, given the impending call for Nitish Kumar to prove a majority in the House. Currently, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comprises 127 MLAs, including 45 from JD-U, 78 from BJP, and four from HAMS. On the other hand, the Mahagathbandhan has 114 MLAs, with 79 from RJD, 19 from Congress, and 16 from Left parties. The magic number required to form the government in Bihar is 122, and Mahagathbandhan needs just eight more MLAs to reach this threshold.

Amid these political developments, Lalu Prasad Yadav has attempted to reach Nitish Kumar five times for discussions, while RJD vice-president Shivanand Tiwari expressed dissatisfaction with Nitish Kumar’s response. Tiwari recounted a conversation where he raised concerns about Nitish Kumar’s unavailability and received a commitment from him to decide on Saturday. Tiwari further expressed disappointment with the perceived historical implications of Kumar’s actions, adding an element of uncertainty to Bihar’s political landscape.