How 'Susashan Babu', 'Palturam' Nitish Kumar may influence the Modi 3.0 govt

Nitish Kumar, Bihar's chief minister, has proven his political survival skills once again, emerging as a significant ally in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Despite being counted out by many, Kumar has positioned himself as the second largest ally in the NDA after the Telugu Desam Party. His political acumen and reputation as a skilled administrator make him crucial for shaping policies in the Modi 3.0 government.

Key Position in the Union Cabinet
The induction of two JD(U) ministers, Rajya Sabha member Ram Nath Thakur and Munger MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), into the Union cabinet underscores Kumar's importance. This move acknowledges Kumar's political stature and solidifies his role within the NDA. As the second largest ally, JD(U) is expected to have a significant influence on the new government's decision-making processes.


Shaping Policies and Priorities
With vast experience in politics and a reputation for effective administration, Kumar is likely to be a key figure in shaping the policies and priorities of the Modi 3.0 government. His support is essential for the BJP to secure a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha, giving him considerable leverage in negotiations with the BJP leadership.

Political Journey and Legacy
Kumar's political journey is marked by resilience and adaptability. Starting as a socialist leader, he was a close associate of Jayaprakash Narayan during the JP movement in the 1970s. Later, he joined the Janata Dal and served as the Union minister for railways and agriculture in the V P Singh government.

In 2005, Kumar led the NDA to a historic victory in Bihar, becoming chief minister and bringing significant transformation to the state. His government's focus on improving law and order, infrastructure, and social welfare programs earned him widespread admiration.

Turbulent Political Waters
In 2013, Kumar broke away from the NDA over Narendra Modi's prime ministerial candidature, forming an alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress. However, the alliance was defeated in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, leading Kumar to resign as chief minister. Undeterred, Kumar led the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) to victory in the 2015 Bihar assembly elections but later broke away from the RJD over corruption allegations in 2017.

Rejoining the NDA, the JD(U) won 16 out of 17 seats it contested in Bihar during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, becoming the second largest party in the NDA after the BJP. Despite severing ties with the BJP in 2022 and forming a Mahagathbandhan government with RJD's support, Kumar rejoined the NDA in January this year after breaking ties with the RJD and INDIA bloc at the national level.

Nitish Kumar's political journey exemplifies his resilience, adaptability, and strategic acumen. As he solidifies his legacy, his role in the Modi 3.0 government will be crucial in shaping the policies and priorities for the future.

(With inputs from TOI)