In a twist of political dynamics, former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has stirred the political pot by suggesting that current CM Nitish Kumar is in contact with BJP leadership and might consider returning to the NDA fold. Manjhi’s remarks, made to the media, claimed that Nitish’s alertness heightened after two senior JD(U) leaders proposed installing RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as the chief minister.
“Nitish had strongly objected to this proposal, resulting in a change of guard in the JD(U),” Manjhi remarked, referring to Nitish’s recent return as the president of his party. “However, Nitish has now received assurance of support from the BJP in case around a dozen JD(U) legislators desert the party. This suggests Nitish might switch sides again,” he added.
In response, the JD(U) strongly denied Manjhi’s claims, accusing him of spreading “rumors” under BJP pressure. JD(U) National General Secretary Rajib Ranjan dismissed Manjhi’s statements as baseless and urged him to refrain from making irresponsible remarks.
Despite the denial from JD(U), political circles in the state are abuzz with speculation about Nitish Kumar’s potential move. Legislative Council chairman Devesh Chandra Thakur further fueled the speculation by expressing his loyalty to Nitish Kumar. Thakur stated, “I am his soldier and will follow him wherever he goes,” when questioned about Nitish’s possible return to the NDA fold.
Thakur’s comments carry significance, especially considering reports of Nitish Kumar’s purported dissatisfaction with the Congress, though the CM himself has denied such claims. Thakur mentioned being promised a Lok Sabha ticket from Sitamarhi seat, currently held by JD(U)’s Sunil Kumar Pintu, adding to the intrigue surrounding Nitish’s political stance.
As Bihar’s political landscape remains in flux, the possibility of Nitish Kumar’s realignment continues to be a subject of keen observation.
