In the ever-shifting landscape of Indian politics, Nitish Kumar’s latest flip-flop has not gone unnoticed. The veteran politician, who recently returned to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), is facing criticism from former ally Rahul Gandhi. In a public meeting in Bihar’s Purnia, Gandhi expressed his views on Kumar’s propensity for U-turns, highlighting the fragility of political alliances and the impact on the opposition’s unity.
The backdrop to this political drama is Kumar’s decision to rejoin the NDA after a brief stint with the Mahagathbandhan, a grand alliance of opposition parties formed to challenge the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Rahul Gandhi, the face of the Congress party, accused Kumar of succumbing to ‘little pressure’ and humorously narrated an incident about the Chief Minister’s swift return to the Governor House.
Gandhi’s comments, delivered during his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ emphasized the Mahagathbandhan’s commitment to social justice, one of the five ‘nyays’ (justice) advocated during the march. The Congress leader questioned why Kumar came under pressure and speculated that it might be due to the alliance’s focus on issues such as social justice, participation, and equity.
The JD(U) chief’s defection is not just a blow to the Mahagathbandhan but also to INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a coalition of 28 opposition parties aimed at challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. Kumar, considered the ‘architect’ of INDIA, reportedly left due to dissatisfaction with not being appointed its convenor and the Congress’ perceived ‘hijacking’ of the bloc.
Rahul Gandhi’s jibe at Kumar’s political journey further strained the already tenuous relationship between the two leaders. The Congress leader mocked Kumar’s frequent switches, indicating a lack of stability in the political landscape. This move has left the opposition reeling, as Kumar’s departure could impact their strategy for the upcoming elections.
Beyond the political theatrics, Rahul Gandhi also touched upon significant national issues during his rally. He addressed concerns about the transfer of land from farmers to industrialists and criticized the government’s handling of the agricultural laws. Additionally, he advocated for a caste-based census to accurately determine the population of Dalits, OBCs, and other social groups.
The rally in Purnia, originally expected to feature leaders like Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad Yadav, underwent changes due to Kumar’s switch. Despite the setback, Rahul Gandhi asserted that the Mahagathbandhan would continue its fight for social justice in Bihar, distancing itself from the need for Nitish Kumar’s involvement in the cause.
As political dynamics in Bihar undergo a seismic shift, the fallout from Nitish Kumar’s latest move raises questions about the stability and cohesion of opposition alliances in the run-up to the crucial 2024 elections. The political chessboard is evolving, and each player’s strategic moves will play a defining role in shaping the future of Indian politics.