Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday declared that his political future lay firmly with the National Democratic Alliance, seeking to end speculation over his shifting loyalties. Speaking at a rally in Purnea alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Janata Dal (United) leader said he would “not go anywhere henceforth”.
“It was the JD(U)-BJP combine which had formed a government in Bihar, for the first time, in November, 2005. For one or two times, I went to the other side, upon prodding of some of my own party colleagues, one of whom is sitting here,” Kumar said, gesturing towards Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh ‘Lalan’.
The chief minister added, “But, that is a thing of the past. I could never be comfortable with those people. They always indulged in mischief when we shared power... I am now back. And, I will not go anywhere henceforth.” His remark drew smiles and applause from the Prime Minister seated beside him.
Kumar’s assertion comes just weeks before the Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for the assembly polls, and is seen as a reassurance to voters and allies wary of his shifting political moorings.
Over the years, Kumar has repeatedly switched sides. He broke with the BJP in 2013 over Narendra Modi’s candidature, returned in 2017 citing corruption in the RJD, then exited the NDA in 2022 to form government with the RJD and Congress, only to rejoin the NDA earlier this year.
These zig-zag moves have drawn both criticism and strategic praise, making him one of the most unpredictable figures in Bihar politics.
Also read: CM Nitish Kumar declines skull cap at madrasa event
Follow us
