Patna :- As Bihar witnesses a political storm with speculations of Nitish Kumar considering an alliance with the BJP, political parties convened on Saturday to assess the evolving situation. In a crucial meeting of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), party leader Lalu Yadav was given the authority to navigate through the twists and turns of state politics.
During the RJD meeting, Tejashwi Yadav hinted at the likelihood of unforeseen developments. Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister, Tejashwi Yadav, expressed respect for Nitish Kumar within the RJD but acknowledged that certain factors were beyond the Chief Minister’s control. Reports suggest that the game is far from over in Bihar, with RJD MLAs instructed to stay in Patna and keep their phones active.
Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has been dispatched to Patna as a senior observer to monitor the unfolding events.
The Congress party disclosed its efforts to reach out to Nitish Kumar, with Mallikarjun Kharge attempting to contact the Chief Minister multiple times. However, due to conflicting schedules, a conversation is yet to take place, as stated by Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh.
In the Saturday party meeting, Tejashwi hinted at potential surprises, stating, “Bihar mein abhi khel hona baki hain” (The game is yet to begin in Bihar). He emphasized the progress made in the state under his leadership, addressing issues such as jobs, caste census, and increased reservation.
Responding to speculations, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge remarked, “Are they (JD(U)) going out? I have not got any information about it so far.” The Bihar BJP core committee also met on Saturday, with Union Minister Giriraj Singh affirming that Nitish Kumar remains the Chief Minister.
BJP President JP Nadda, in a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Lok Janshankti Party President Chirag Pawan, discussed the evolving situation. Chirag Pawan emphasized the need for clarity on whether Nitish Kumar is joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Amid the political turmoil, Nitish Kumar continued with his official duties, laying the foundation for the second phase of development works in Buxar’s Brahmpur on Saturday.
JD(U) leader KC Tyagi criticized the Congress for consistently disrespecting Nitish Kumar and clarified that Nitish Kumar rejected the position of convener within the INDIA bloc.
The RJD, with 79 MLAs, leads the ‘Mahagathbandhan,’ consisting of the Congress, three Left parties, and the JD(U). If the JD(U) withdraws from the alliance, it will fall eight members short of a majority in the Bihar Assembly.