Political Turmoil in Bihar: Nitish Kumar Contemplates Return to NDA, Alliance with Mahagathbandhan at Risk
Patna, 27th January 2024: Bihar is once again engulfed in political uncertainty as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar contemplates a return to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the coalition he departed from in 2022 to form the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ alliance with the Opposition.
Signs of a potential breakdown in the alliance between Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and Lalu Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have surfaced, with key NDA leaders expressing doubts about the longevity of the ruling Mahagathbandhan government.
Jitan Ram Manjhi, the chief of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), and former Bihar CM has raised scepticism about the stability of the Mahagathbandhan government. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushil Kumar Modi hinted at the possibility of the rekindling of ties between Nitish Kumar’s JDU and the BJP.
Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal (RLJD) president Upendra Kushwaha highlighted indications of Nitish Kumar’s concerns within the Mahagathbandhan, suggesting the potential for an exit from the bloc. Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan expressed anticipation for clarity on whether Nitish Kumar’s JDU will realign with the BJP-led NDA.
The absence of interaction between Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav and Nitish Kumar during the Republic Day celebrations in Patna has raised eyebrows. RJD has urged Nitish Kumar to address reports of talks with the BJP regarding rejoining the NDA.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav speculated on Nitish Kumar’s future, suggesting that he could become the prime minister if he remains within the INDIA bloc of the Opposition.
While the JD(U) affirms its commitment to the Opposition bloc, it calls for introspection by the Congress on alliance and seat-sharing matters. Recent statements and actions by Nitish Kumar, including remarks on dynasty politics and expressions of dissatisfaction within the INDIA coalition, have added to the political turbulence.
RJD has convened a meeting of its legislators, while the JD(U) has scheduled its meeting to discuss the evolving situation.
Nitish Kumar’s political journey, marked by various alliances and shifts, has been a defining factor in Bihar’s political landscape. As of now, the JD(U) holds 45 seats in the 243-member Bihar assembly, while the NDA has 82. The RJD, Congress, and Left parties together command 114 seats, with the RJD being the single-largest party holding 79 seats. The unfolding developments hold significant implications for Bihar’s political future.
