New Delhi, January 13, 2024 : In a recent development within the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) bloc, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has turned down the proposal to serve as the convener. The alliance leaders, during a virtual meeting, had appointed Mallikarjun Kharge as the chairperson and proposed Nitish Kumar for the convener role. However, the seasoned politician declined the offer, emphasizing that a member from the Congress party should assume the responsibility. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors behind Nitish Kumar’s rejection in 5 points:
1. Congress Preference: During the coalition leaders’ meeting, a proposal was put forth to make Nitish Kumar the convener of the INDIA bloc. However, the JD(U) leader had not given his approval at that time. Sanjay Kumar Jha, the JD(U) national general secretary, disclosed that discussions within the party were ongoing, and Nitish Kumar was inclined towards having a Congress leader as the chairperson.
2. Opposition from TMC: Reports suggest that the JD(U) initially wanted Nitish Kumar as the convener, but this proposition faced opposition from the Trinamool Congress (TMC). A TMC leader clarified that Mamata Banerjee, the TMC chief, had already expressed the party’s stand against Nitish Kumar as the convener. The leader further reiterated that it is only Banerjee who will speak on this INDIA-alliance issue.
3. Conditional Acceptance by Nitish Kumar: In response to the reports, Nitish Kumar clarified that he would only accept the convener role if all parties involved in the alliance were in agreement.
4. Sharad Pawar’s Statement: NCP president Sharad Pawar addressed the situation, confirming that there was a suggestion to appoint Nitish Kumar as the convener during the INDIA bloc meeting. However, Kumar proposed the formation of a team comprising party chiefs instead. Pawar emphasized the alliance’s intent not to project a single face for votes, expressing confidence in selecting a leader post-election, citing the precedent of Morarji Desai in 1977.
5. Meeting Agendas: The virtual meeting of INDIA bloc leaders focused on reviewing the seat-sharing agenda, participation in Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, and other alliance-related matters. Sharad Pawar outlined that the meeting discussed programs and policies to be adopted, deciding to form a committee for organizing joint rallies across the country. However, discussions on candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections were deferred, with a focus on finalizing seat-sharing arrangements.
