Nitish Kumar Backs PM Modi for Third Term, Criticizes INDIA Bloc’s Inaction

Summary : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has endorsed Narendra Modi for a third term as Prime Minister, signaling a major shift from his recent role in the Congress-led INDIA opposition bloc. Critics have dubbed Kumar ‘paltu Kumar’ or ‘turncoat Kumar’ for his political flip-flop. Kumar dismissed the opposition bloc’s outreach, affirming his unwavering support for Modi. His endorsement is crucial as the BJP lacks a clear majority, and support from Kumar’s Janata Dal United (JDU) and Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is essential for forming the government. Kumar’s demands include key cabinet positions and a common minimum program. This move bolsters the BJP-led NDA’s position, while the opposition scrambles to regroup and strategize.

In a significant political shift, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has openly endorsed Narendra Modi for a third term as Prime Minister. This announcement came during a recent meeting with newly-elected MPs from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Kumar’s endorsement marks a stark turnabout, given his recent role in the Congress-led INDIA opposition bloc, an action that earned him the nickname ‘paltu Kumar’ or ‘turncoat Kumar’ from critics.

During the meeting, Kumar criticized his former allies, stating that the INDIA bloc “has not done any work for the country.” His remarks dispel rumors that the opposition bloc had approached him for support. Kumar unequivocally affirmed his loyalty to Modi, saying, “I will be with PM at all times,” thus quashing any speculation about another potential political shift.

Kumar’s backing is pivotal in the current fragmented political scenario. With the BJP lacking a clear majority, the support from Kumar’s Janata Dal United (JDU) and Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) becomes crucial. Together, their 28 MPs are essential for the BJP to form and maintain the government.

Speculation about a possible reunion between Kumar and the INDIA bloc had surfaced following the BJP’s failure to secure a majority. However, Kumar has remained silent on the issue. Insiders suggest that his departure from the opposition bloc was due to unresolved matters, notably his unfulfilled appointment as the Convenor of the INDIA bloc.

Kumar’s demands from the NDA are explicit. The JDU seeks two cabinet positions, a junior Union Minister post, and a common minimum program. Among the sought-after roles is the Railways Minister position, which Kumar previously held.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi has been quick to criticize the opposition, particularly the Congress, for its poor performance in the last three Lok Sabha elections, where it failed to win more than 100 seats.

As this political saga unfolds, Kumar’s steadfast support for Modi strengthens the BJP-led NDA’s stance, leaving the opposition bloc to reassess and strategize their next steps. In this high-stakes environment, Kumar’s allegiance emerges as a decisive element shaping the future of Indian politics.