In a political landscape marked by strategic maneuvers and unexpected alliances, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has once again made headlines with his latest shift in allegiance. Breaking away from the opposition bloc INDIA, Kumar has returned to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), a move that holds significant implications for the state’s political dynamics.
Kumar’s decision to switch sides for the fifth time in a decade has not only sparked debates but has also set the stage for a recalibration of power-sharing arrangements within the newly formed government. According to sources, the BJP and Nitish Kumar are poised to adhere to the 2020 formula for cabinet berths, with the Chief Minister retaining the crucial home department.
The recent oath-taking ceremony witnessed two BJP deputies assuming office alongside Kumar, prompting speculation about the BJP’s cautious approach. Referred to as “Paltu Kumar” by critics for his frequent flip-flops, Nitish Kumar seems to be under the watchful eye of the BJP, as revealed by inside sources.
As the Council of Ministers expands in the coming days, discussions on seat sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls are also on the horizon. However, sources indicate that the previous 17-17 formula for Bihar’s 40 parliamentary seats may undergo modifications to accommodate new allies, including Jitan Ram Manjhi’s HAM.
The catalyst for Nitish Kumar’s departure from the opposition bloc traces back to a January 13 video meeting. Sources suggest that an unsatisfactory response from Rahul Gandhi, who proposed consulting Mamata Banerjee on the coordinator position for the INDIA bloc, fueled Kumar’s decision. Despite being chosen as the convenor, Kumar declined the post, recommending it for Lalu Yadav.
The political landscape in Bihar has further intensified with the NDA government’s no-confidence motion against Bihar Assembly Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary, a move aimed at challenging the opposition RJD. Several ruling alliance MLAs, including prominent figures from the BJP and JDU, expressed “no confidence” in Chaudhary, triggering a complex political scenario.
In the intricate dance of political maneuvers, the formation of the NDA government in Bihar has left the legislative assembly delicately balanced. With the ruling alliance holding 128 seats and the opposition Mahagathbandhan having 114 MLAs, including the RJD as the single largest party, the upcoming no-confidence motion against the Speaker adds a layer of complexity to the political narrative.
For Nitish Kumar, the decision to align with the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections carries both risks and potential rewards. Despite facing criticism for leaving the opposition bloc, historical data suggests that Kumar’s association with the BJP has been advantageous in national elections. The upcoming Lok Sabha polls will be crucial for the JD(U) chief, who aims to leverage the BJP’s Hindutva agenda and Prime Minister Modi’s popularity to improve his party’s electoral performance.
As Bihar braces for a turbulent political period, Nitish Kumar’s strategic choices and the unfolding drama in the assembly reflect the intricate web of alliances and power dynamics that define the state’s political landscape. The upcoming no-confidence motion against the Speaker and the subsequent floor test will be pivotal moments that could shape the trajectory of Bihar’s political future.