Nitish Kumar ‘s Political Odyssey, A Journey of Alliances and Partings

In the tumultuous landscape of Bihar’s political arena, Nitish Kumar has scripted a narrative of alliances and partings, leaving an indelible mark on the state’s political history. His journey, marked by strategic moves and bold decisions, reflects the dynamic nature of politics. From breaking ties with the BJP in 2013, forming unexpected alliances with rivals in 2015, realigning with the BJP in 2017, steering the NDA to a resounding victory in 2019, and orchestrating a dramatic return to the Mahagathbandhan in 2022 – Nitish Kumar’s political trajectory has been nothing short of a rollercoaster.

As the specter of 2024 looms over Bihar’s political horizon, with hints of a potential departure from the Mahagathbandhan, Nitish Kumar’s next move remains uncertain. Will he once again navigate the intricate web of alliances, possibly returning to the NDA? Only time will unravel the chapters of Nitish Kumar’s political saga, keeping the citizens and political pundits on the edge of anticipation. Bihar continues to be a crucible of political dynamics, and Nitish Kumar, with his seasoned political acumen, holds the key to the state’s political future.

2013: JDU-BJP Alliance Breaks
In a significant political move, Nitish Kumar severed ties with the BJP in 2013, emphasizing the need for an NDA leader with a “clean and secular image.” This decision came on the heels of Narendra Modi’s projection as the BJP-led NDA’s prime ministerial face. Nitish Kumar, expressing a strong stance, declared that he would rather be reduced to dust than return to the BJP.

2015: RJD and JDU Unite
The political landscape saw a major shift in 2015 when Nitish Kumar formed a “Grand Alliance” with his arch-rival Lalu Prasad-led RJD, Congress, and other smaller parties. The Grand Alliance secured a significant victory in the state Assembly elections, marking Nitish’s return as the Chief Minister.

2017: JDU Sides with BJP After Breaking Away from RJD
Amidst the alleged IRCTC scam involving Lalu Prasad’s family, Nitish Kumar urged his deputy, Tejashwi Yadav, to publicly explain his position. When Tejashwi refused to resign, Nitish Kumar made a bold move by breaking away from the Grand Alliance and aligning with the BJP to form a new government. This decision had a lasting impact on Bihar’s political dynamics.

2019: NDA’s Strong Performance in Lok Sabha Elections
The NDA, comprising JDU and BJP, delivered a remarkable performance in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Bihar. The coalition achieved a sweeping victory, securing 39 out of the total 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state, solidifying its political dominance.

2022: JDU-BJP Breaks Apart, Nitish Becomes CM Again
In a surprising turn of events in 2022, Nitish Kumar returned to the Mahagathbandhan, severing ties with the BJP. He resigned as Chief Minister, only to stake claim again shortly afterward, with Tejashwi as his deputy. The new government took shape with the support of RJD, Congress, CPI, CPI (M-L), HAM (S), and an Independent.

2024: Nitish on the Verge of Leaving INDIA Alliance
As cracks appear in the Mahagathbandhan, speculation is rife about Nitish Kumar’s potential departure, possibly signaling a return to the NDA. The political landscape in Bihar remains dynamic, and Nitish Kumar’s strategic moves continue to shape the state’s political narrative, leaving both political observers and citizens eagerly anticipating the unfolding chapters of this ever-evolving saga.