New Delhi – In a striking political declaration, Maheshwar Hazari, the Deputy Speaker of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha and prominent Janata Dal (United) leader, has asserted that Nitish Kumar stands as the most deserving contender for the Prime Ministerial role. Hazari has affirmed that the collective leaders of the Opposition INDIA alliance will soon unveil their decision in this regard.
Hazari, in his resolute statement, stated, “CM Nitish Kumar possesses a multitude of attributes essential for the esteemed position of Prime Minister. When the INDIA alliance proclaims its choice for the Prime Ministerial candidate, it is evident that Nitish Kumar’s name will resound prominently.” These remarks were conveyed via the news agency ANI.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself had once acclaimed Nitish Kumar, stating, “If there is any towering socialist leader in the country after Rammanohar Lohiya, it is Nitish Kumar Ji.”
Hazari, while offering this endorsement, underscored Nitish Kumar’s extensive experience, having served as a Union Minister on five occasions and as the Chief Minister of Bihar for an uninterrupted 18-year tenure.
In response to inquiries regarding the party’s preparations for the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Hazari’s statement acquires significance.
It is noteworthy that Nitish Kumar has consistently disavowed any ambitions for the prime ministerial role, instead expressing his intent to lead the opposition’s concerted efforts against the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He reiterated this stance, saying, “I have stated this before, and I shall reiterate it now. I harbor no personal aspirations. My sole objective is to galvanize Opposition leaders into a unified front, a move that would undoubtedly serve the nation’s greater good.”
To date, the INDIA alliance has not disclosed its Prime Ministerial candidate for the high-stakes battle, despite convening three meetings this year.
[With inputs from ANI]
