The political landscape in Bihar is undergoing rapid changes, as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to re-enter the government led by Nitish Kumar. Drawing from the 2020 template, where Kumar remained Chief Minister with two deputy CMs from the BJP, the political maneuver is set to unfold on Monday.
JD(U) MLAs and MPs are scheduled to meet at the Chief Minister’s residence on Sunday, paving the way for a potential new government formation on the same evening or Monday. BJP MP Sushil Kumar Modi emphasized the dynamic nature of politics, stating that doors are never permanently closed. The final decision, he mentioned, rests with the central leadership.
In response to the unfolding developments, the BJP, RJD, and Congress have called for their legislature party meetings. RJD spokesperson Manoj Jha urged Nitish Kumar to clarify his stance amidst the prevailing confusion. JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar, however, asserted that Nitish remains clear and proactive in his political approach.
The absence of Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav at a recent high tea event and subsequent actions by JD(U) ministers hint at the changing dynamics within the Grand Alliance government. Nitish Kumar, when asked about Tejashwi’s absence, responded by saying, “Ask the person who has not come.”
Efforts by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi to communicate with Nitish Kumar were reportedly unsuccessful. Nitish’s unavailability during this crucial time adds an air of uncertainty to the unfolding political scenario.
Political observers are closely monitoring Lalu Prasad’s role, especially as his son Tejashwi Yadav is the deputy CM. With Lalu’s ally Awadh Bihari Choudhary serving as the assembly speaker, there is speculation about the potential influence Lalu might exert in the coming days.
With the Grand Alliance having 115 MLAs and the NDA with Nitish having 128 MLAs, the majority mark is 122 in the 243-member assembly. The BJP is reaching out to allies, as Union minister Nityanand Rai met with HAM(S) founder Jitan Ram Manjhi and RLJD president Upendra Kushwaha.
There are indications that BJP may seek compromises in seat-sharing arrangements, potentially reducing JD(U)’s Lok Sabha seats from 17. The BJP insider suggests that both parties stand to gain if they come together, emphasizing the importance of Bihar’s 40 Lok Sabha seats for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a move signaling possible impending changes, Nitish Kumar made late-night bureaucratic transfers, including the reshuffling of district magistrates.
As Bihar braces for political shifts, the intricate dance of alliances and power dynamics unfolds, leaving the state and the nation awaiting the final outcome.
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