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Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar seems poised for yet another volte-face, potentially returning to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) after less than 18 months of aligning with the Opposition. If this shift materializes, it would mark Kumar’s second major alliance switch during his current term in the state assembly, earning him the moniker ‘paltu ram’ (the one who changes sides) among political circles.
Kumar’s political journey has been characterized by strategic maneuvers and realignments, often driven by his quest for power and survival in Bihar’s tumultuous political landscape. His potential regression into the NDA fold could deal a significant blow to the Opposition alliance, Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), which he spearheaded to challenge the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.
This wouldn’t be the first time Nitish Kumar has switched alliances. His political career has been punctuated by such moves, each accompanied by its own set of circumstances and repercussions.
The first major switch occurred in 2013 when Kumar severed ties with the BJP, ending their 17-year alliance. His discontent stemmed from the BJP’s announcement of Narendra Modi as its prime ministerial candidate. Kumar’s solo venture in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections proved disastrous, with his party managing to secure only two seats compared to 18 in the previous polls.
In a bid to revive his political fortunes, Kumar stepped down as Bihar CM in 2014, making way for Jiten Ram Manjhi. However, he reclaimed the CM’s seat after the ‘mahagathbandhan’ coalition, led by RJD’s Lalu Prasad Yadav, secured a resounding victory in the 2015 assembly polls. Yet, Kumar’s dissatisfaction resurfaced as he found himself relegated to a junior position within the coalition.
The fissures within the ‘mahagathbandhan’ widened as Kumar openly sided with the BJP on key policy issues like demonetization and GST. His concerns about maintaining a ‘clean’ image amid corruption allegations against his allies further strained the alliance. In 2017, Kumar resigned as CM once again, only to return to power after realigning with the NDA.
The cycle repeated itself in the 2020 assembly polls when Kumar’s party suffered electoral setbacks, prompting fears of diminished autonomy within the coalition. The final rupture occurred in 2022, with the JD(U) accusing the BJP of conspiring against it and subsequently breaking away to form a government with RJD’s support.
As Nitish Kumar contemplates another alliance switch, his political maneuvers continue to shape Bihar’s political landscape. While his pragmatism has enabled him to retain power, it has also invited criticism for his perceived opportunism. Whether this latest move will bolster his political standing or further tarnish his reputation remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Nitish Kumar’s political journey is as unpredictable as ever.
Also Read: Nitish Kumar Resigns as Bihar Chief Minister, Prepares for Ninth Term with BJP Support
