Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Nitish Kumar explains his switches, but are voters in Bihar believing it?

Bihar Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Less than a year ago, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar was seen as a formidable figure within the opposition, positioned as the strongest challenger to PM Narendra Modi. However, Kumar’s current political landscape is marked by a flurry of strategic moves, as he works to reaffirm his loyalty to the saffron alliance, comprising the PM and the BJP.

During a recent event alongside Modi in Aurangabad, Kumar aimed to dispel any doubts about his allegiance, stating, “While I may have momentarily strayed from the path, I want to assure you that I have returned to the NDA fold for good.” His remarks, met with subtle smirks from Modi and Bihar governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, highlight the intricate dynamics of political alliances in the state.

As Bihar witnesses the fervour of election season, Kumar assumes a prominent role in numerous rallies, often sharing stages with BJP’s key campaigners. However, amidst his speeches, Kumar’s assurances of unwavering commitment to the NDA ring hollow to many. Aware of his history of political manoeuvring, the public responds with scepticism, mindful of past promises that were quickly forgotten.

“People remember Nitish’s statement in the assembly that ‘hum mitti mein mil jayenge, lekin BJP ke saath nahi jayenge (I will prefer to get buried rather than return to BJP)’.

However, Nitish returned to BJP twice after that unequivocal declaration,” remarks Rajesh Rathorre, spokesperson for Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee, highlighting the erosion of Kumar’s credibility.During the 2010 assembly polls, Nitish firmly opposed BJP’s proposal to involve Modi, then Gujarat’s CM, in Bihar’s campaigning. Despite BJP’s eagerness to utilise Modi’s popularity, Kumar cautioned that his presence could alienate Muslims due to his alleged mishandling of the 2002 post-Godhra riots.Presently, JD(U) is contesting only 16 out of Bihar’s 40 seats, a considerably reduced share compared to previous elections. Despite this, Kumar seems content with the arrangement, indicating a significant shift from his earlier stance of staunch opposition to becoming a compliant ally.A BJP insider told TOI that JD(U) candidates are keen to have Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah at their rallies. In various regions, party workers actively promote BJP’s campaign, displaying posters of the PM and canvassing for votes in Modi’s name.

At 73 years old, Kumar faces his most challenging political test yet as he navigates Bihar’s complex political landscape. Despite his efforts to reassure allies and constituents, doubts persist about his true allegiance, casting a shadow over his political credibility.

As the campaign progresses across Bihar, Kumar’s past statements come back to haunt him. His previous remarks, including questioning the need for another Modi in Bihar besides Sushil Kumar Modi, are recalled by political observers like Uday Shankar Chaudhary, who closely monitored JD(U)’s journey since its inception in 2003.

Today, Kumar finds himself aligned with BJP’s agenda, a departure from his earlier aspirations for political independence. He now echoes BJP’s ambitious “400 Paar” slogan for Modi, contrary to his previous prediction of BJP’s limited success if faced with a united opposition.

Initially eyeing electoral contests beyond Bihar, JD(U) now focuses solely on the state after BJP’s decision not to share seats elsewhere. This election holds immense significance for JD(U), with the outcome in Bihar determining its future trajectory.

As Bihar’s political landscape evolves with each passing day, Kumar and his allies confront new challenges and opportunities. With the stakes rising as the polls progress, the election’s outcome will significantly influence Bihar’s political trajectory.

In the ever-changing dynamics of Indian politics, where alliances shift frequently, Kumar’s journey from being labelled as ‘paltu ram’ to a potential kingmaker is far from reaching its conclusion.

Inputs from TOI