Bihar, January 27, 2024 – In a significant turn of events, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is reportedly considering a return to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), causing ripples in the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) that brought him to power in 2022. Here are the key developments in the unfolding political drama:
1. Signs of Alliance Breakdown:
- There are clear indications of growing unease within the Mahagathbandhan, with several leaders suggesting a potential rift between Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and Lalu Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
2. NDA Leaders Hint at Reunion:
- Former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi and senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushil Kumar Modi have hinted at the possibility of Nitish Kumar rejoining the NDA. Manjhi predicts the Mahagathbandhan government’s short-lived tenure.
3. Statements from Key Leaders:
- Jitan Ram Manjhi of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Upendra Kushwaha, president of Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal (RLJD), have expressed concerns over Nitish Kumar’s apparent discomfort within the Mahagathbandhan.
4. BJP Open to Collaboration:
- Sushil Kumar Modi, a prominent BJP leader, has stated that the door is open for Nitish Kumar, indicating a potential revival of ties between the JDU and BJP.
5. Tejashwi Yadav’s Absence at Republic Day Celebrations:
- On Friday, Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav, an RJD leader, skipped Republic Day celebrations where Nitish Kumar was present, further fueling speculations.
6. RJD’s Demand for Clarity:
- The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has urged Nitish Kumar to clarify reports of talks with the BJP regarding a potential alliance with the NDA.
7. JD(U) Stands Firm with Opposition:
- The Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) has affirmed its commitment to the Opposition bloc but has called on the Congress for introspection on alliance and seat-sharing matters.
8. Nitish Kumar’s Recent Stir:
- Nitish Kumar stirred controversy within the alliance by addressing concerns over dynasty politics, leading to reactions from opposition leaders and his daughter, Roshni Acharya.
9. Upcoming Party Meetings:
- In response to the escalating crisis, the RJD has scheduled a meeting of its legislators, while the JD(U) has planned its meeting to discuss the current political landscape.
10. Kumar’s Political Journey:
- Nitish Kumar’s political journey, marked by alliances and realignments, has seen him forming alliances with the BJP, breaking ties, and forming governments with various political configurations.
Conclusion:
- The unfolding political drama in Bihar has put the Mahagathbandhan on shaky ground, with Nitish Kumar’s potential shift back to the NDA. As party meetings are scheduled, the coming days are crucial in determining the fate of Bihar’s political landscape. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.**
Note: The current Bihar assembly status reveals the JD(U) with 45 members, NDA with 82, and the Mahagathbandhan with 114 lawmakers, indicating a delicate balance in the state’s political equation.
