Key Points:
- Bihar CM Nitish Kumar avoids media, fueling speculation of political discontent.
- Amit Shah’s statement on Bihar’s CM face triggers controversy.
- Speculations rise about Nitish’s possible departure from NDA amidst growing alliances.
- BJP signals that Nitish is neither indispensable nor irreplaceable for the central government.
- Bihar’s ongoing protests and administrative changes add to the political turbulence.
New Delhi: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, often regarded as a master of political equations, has once again become the center of speculation. Known for his calculated silence during critical political junctures, Nitish has maintained a distance from media cameras since his return from Delhi, triggering rumors of dissatisfaction with his allies.
Experts recall a similar pattern in the past when Nitish distanced himself from the public eye before breaking away from the Mahagathbandhan alliance. Currently, his limited interactions with select party members are amplifying the buzz about his next political move.
Delhi on High Alert Over Nitish’s Moves
Unlike earlier instances when Nitish’s actions were confined to Bihar, this time, the stakes are higher. Any major upheaval in Bihar could ripple into the political landscape of Delhi, making the central government particularly cautious about the Bihar CM’s strategies.
Amit Shah’s Statement Fuels Controversy
The latest controversy traces back to Home Minister Amit Shah’s comment that Bihar’s CM candidate would be decided in the legislative party meeting. This contradicted Shah’s earlier assertion that Nitish Kumar was NDA’s leader in Bihar. The statement has given rise to speculations of brewing tensions, with many concluding that Nitish might be preparing to switch allegiances again.
BJP Sends a Subtle Message
In a veiled yet unmistakable response, BJP has hinted that Nitish Kumar is neither a necessity nor an obligation for the NDA government. Party insiders suggest that BJP is prepared for alternatives, especially with recent developments such as NCP leader Sharad Pawar meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and speculations about the reunification of the Shiv Sena factions and NCP.
This emerging coalition could potentially offset the loss of Nitish Kumar, signaling that the BJP is strategically prepared to manage without him.
The Numbers Game: Why Nitish’s Role is Crucial
Currently, Nitish Kumar’s JDU contributes 13 MPs to the Lok Sabha. Comparatively, the Shiv Sena Uddhav faction has 9 MPs, while Sharad Pawar’s NCP has 7. Although Nitish’s departure would not destabilize the central government, his alliance remains significant for BJP’s performance in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Turbulence in Bihar: Protest and Political Speculation
Adding to the political uncertainty are ongoing protests by BPAC candidates in Bihar, putting the state government under pressure. The opposition is leveraging the issue, while administrative reshuffles such as the appointment of new Governors and the transfer of three DGPs have further intensified speculations.
Nitish’s recent visit to Delhi ostensibly to meet the family of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has also sparked rumors of clandestine meetings with Congress leaders. Fueling the fire, RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav has reiterated that “doors are open” for Nitish Kumar, leaving political circles abuzz.
Nitish Kumar’s silence is being closely watched, with political analysts anticipating a potential shake-up in Bihar’s power dynamics. If past patterns are any indication, his next move could significantly impact not only Bihar but also the broader political narrative leading to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
