Bihar’s Political Landscape Shifts: Nitish Kumar’s Resignation and the Assembly’s Altered Equation

Introduction:

In a seismic shift in Bihar’s political landscape, Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister, has formally resigned, marking the end of his party’s alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). This move signals a return to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), aligning once again with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in what promises to be a significant realignment of political forces in the state.

Background:
The roots of this political upheaval trace back to the 2020 assembly elections when the RJD emerged as the largest party with 75 seats. The BJP secured 74 seats, and Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) [JDU] won 43 seats in the 243-member Bihar Assembly. Following their electoral success, the JDU and BJP joined hands to form the government.

Twists and Turns:
However, the political landscape took unexpected turns in 2022 when Nitish Kumar, discontent with the NDA, broke away and formed a grand alliance with Lalu Yadav’s RJD, the Congress, and Left parties. This alliance, known as the Mahagathbandhan, marked a departure from the NDA coalition.

Return to NDA:
In a surprising reversal, Nitish Kumar has now chosen to sever ties with the Mahagathbandhan and return to the NDA fold. The implications of this move extend beyond Bihar, potentially reshaping alliances and power dynamics on the national stage.

Current Assembly Numbers:
As of today, the NDA holds a majority in the assembly with 128 MLAs. The BJP contributes 78, JDU has 45, and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) brings in 4 legislators – surpassing the necessary 122 seats. On the opposing front, the RJD leads with 79 MLAs, supported by Congress and three Left parties, totaling 116.

Oath-taking and Transition:
Nitish Kumar is scheduled to take the oath as the NDA Chief Minister, having submitted his resignation to Governor Rajendra V Arlekar. The Governor accepted the resignation, appointing Kumar as the acting chief minister until a new government is formed.

National Implications:
This political realignment not only impacts Bihar but also carries broader implications for national politics. The alliance with the BJP ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections could influence power dynamics and alliances, reshaping the political scenario within the state and beyond.

Mahagathbandhan’s Fate:
With the Mahagathbandhan now falling eight MLAs short of the majority mark, questions arise about its future. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav hints at staking a claim with the support of Congress and left parties, emphasizing that the real political game in Bihar is yet to unfold.

Conclusion and Highlights:
Bihar’s political stage is witnessing an intricate dance of alliances, resignations, and realignments. Nitish Kumar’s decision to rejoin the NDA marks a pivotal moment, shaping the trajectory of politics in Bihar and potentially influencing the national political narrative. The coming days are poised to reveal the full extent of these transformative changes.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s Resignation Reshapes Politics: Returns to BJP-Led NDA, Ends Ties with RJD Coalition

Key Points:

• Nitish Kumar steps down, signaling the end of RJD alliance and return to NDA.
• Originating in the 2020 elections, Kumar’s shifts have altered Bihar’s political landscape.
• Current assembly numbers favor NDA, impacting Bihar’s politics and potentially influencing national alliances.
• Uncertainty looms over Mahagathbandhan’s fate as Tejashwi Yadav hints at alternative strategies.
• Bihar’s political stage witnesses transformative changes with broader implications for state and national narratives.