Patna: In an unexpected turn of events, Nitish Kumar, the leader of the Janata Dal (United), announced his intention to submit his resignation to Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar during the party's legislative meeting. Reports suggest that Kumar will soon head to Raj Bhavan to formalize his decision. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) adopts a strategic approach, opting to await Kumar's resignation before revealing their plan.
The BJP, in response to the unfolding developments, schedules a meeting of Bihar BJP legislators at 10 am to strategize their next steps. Simultaneously, a joint legislative meeting involving JD(U) and BJP members is on the horizon, aiming to navigate the evolving political landscape.
Bihar Mahagathbandhan ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), convened a crucial meeting where party leaders empowered supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav to make pivotal decisions in light of unfolding events. This directive, disclosed by RJD national spokesperson Manoj Jha, underscores the party's readiness to face the challenges ahead.
The RJD, a key player in the Mahagathbandhan alliance, is actively working to garner support and project resilience. As Nitish Kumar eyes his record ninth term as Chief Minister, the RJD explores avenues to contest his potential oath. Plans include addressing the issue during the February 5 budget session, leveraging trust motions to voice their concerns.
While the BJP refrains from an outright endorsement, sources indicate that the party has presented conditions to Nitish Kumar before extending support. Demands for two Deputy Chief Ministers and the Bihar Assembly Speaker's position highlight the intricate negotiations. The final decision hinges on various factors, including recent bureaucratic transfers.
KC Tyagi, JD(U)'s political adviser, issues a stark warning, suggesting that the Mahagathbandhan alliance government is teetering on the brink of collapse. He asserts that the alliance of INDIA bloc parties is eroding not just in Bihar but also in Punjab and West Bengal.
In response to the unfolding crisis, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge appoints Bhupesh Baghel, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, as the party's senior observer for Bihar. This decision aligns with the party's efforts to navigate the political uncertainty amidst fears of Nitish Kumar's potential departure from the Mahagathbandhan alliance.
Despite not making a formal announcement of support, BJP leaders exude confidence during a Saturday meeting in Patna. Speculation arises as attendees are requested to sign a document, potentially a formality for informing Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar about the party's readiness to form a new government.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge attempts to engage with Nitish Kumar, writing a letter and making several unsuccessful calls. Despite Nitish Kumar's reported busyness, the attempts highlight the intensity of the political crisis.
With 79 MLAs, the RJD stands as the single largest party in the Bihar assembly, a critical component of the ruling Mahagathbandhan alliance. However, the alliance faces a precarious situation, lacking eight members for a majority should JD(U) exit.
In this unfolding political drama, Bihar braces for a seismic shift, and the fate of the Mahagathbandhan alliance hangs in the balance.
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