Doors never closed in politics: Sushil Modi on possible return of Nitish Kumar in NDA

BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi stated that doors are never permanently closed to anyone in politics, indicating a possible revival of ties between Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his former ally. Although sources in both the BJP and JD(U) suggested this possibility, it remains unclear if Kumar has finalized a deal with the BJP leadership. Modi emphasized that the decision to open closed doors lies with the central leadership.

After severing ties with the BJP in 2022, Kumar was considered persona non grata by the party. However, recent internal crises within the INDIA bloc have led BJP leaders to adopt a more conciliatory approach. Modi, who previously served as deputy chief minister under Kumar, has been involved in discussions with the BJP leadership, suggesting that he may be entrusted with a significant role if the two parties join forces again.

While Modi enjoyed a close relationship with Kumar in the past, he became a staunch critic after the JD(U) leader left the BJP for the second time in 2022. The BJP has been in contact with its Bihar allies, including Chirag Paswan and Jitan Ram Manjhi, but they have not received a clear indication regarding Kumar's potential return. However, an ally stated that the ground is being prepared for Kumar's re-entry into the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).


BJP sources believe that JD(U) joining their alliance will ensure a sweeping victory in the Lok Sabha polls, as they won 39 out of 40 seats in Bihar in the 2019 elections. However, some BJP leaders from Bihar are hesitant to align with Kumar, as they believe his declining credibility will harm their party and provide an opportunity for the RJD-led opposition to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments. These concerns stem from the RJD-led alliance's strong performance in the 2020 assembly polls.