Bihar Political landscape roiled as Nitish Kumar jumps ship, joins NDA; Opposition Cries Betrayal

The political arena in Bihar witnessed a seismic shift as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s unexpected alliance with the BJP prompted strong reactions from opposition parties within the INDIA bloc. Congress, RJD, and others criticized Kumar for allegedly betraying the opposition alliance ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, with some labeling him a “chameleon” and “Paltu Ram” for his frequent political maneuvers.

The INDIA bloc, facing a significant setback less than 18 months after Kumar formed the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ government with them, warned of a resolute response from the people of Bihar. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asserted that JD(U) was poised to be “finished” in the Lok Sabha polls due to Kumar’s switch.

In response, the BJP defended its alliance with Kumar, describing it as “natural” and asserting that the NDA government would benefit Bihar. BJP leaders also predicted the disintegration of the INDIA bloc, citing its purported lack of ideological cohesion.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized Kumar, accusing him of engaging in a “political drama” to divert attention from Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Ramesh referred to Kumar as an “expert of betrayal” and urged the people of Bihar not to forgive him.

While the JD(U) blamed the Congress for the collapse of the INDIA bloc, opposition parties across the spectrum condemned Kumar’s move. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav labeled it a “new record of betrayal,” and NCP referred to Kumar as the “great Paltu Ram” who follows the BJP’s commands.

Amidst the political upheaval, concerns over the air quality index in Delhi were raised, with the air quality categorized as “extremely bad” in the Anand Vihar region. The BJP leadership congratulated Kumar on joining the NDA government, emphasizing their alliance’s benefits for Bihar’s development.

As the political landscape in Bihar undergoes a significant transformation, the opposition alliance vows to stand united against the BJP, while the ruling NDA expresses confidence in its alliance with Nitish Kumar.