Supporters create buzz
On May 18, Chirag’s supporters created a buzz in NDA politics in Bihar by putting up posters and banners projecting Chirag as the CM. It is likely that Nitish saw this. Also, Nitish is known for being aware of all political developments. In the past, while in the Mahagathbandhan government, he had named leaders from his own and other parties in public meetings.
Was it to clarify the CM post?
There is speculation about the reason behind Chirag’s meeting with Nitish. Some believe Nitish was unhappy with the posters, fearing it could create a message of division in the NDA. BJP leaders are now clearly stating that Nitish will be the CM again. Chirag has also made several statements suggesting he wants to enter Bihar politics. He has spoken about contesting the Assembly elections in 2029. His party’s state executive also passed a proposal supporting his entry into Bihar politics. The posters added to the speculation, which may not have gone well with Nitish. NDA leaders are now openly supporting Nitish as the next CM.
Chirag’s growing role in politics
Chirag is being discussed in Bihar politics for three main reasons. First, seat-sharing talks. Last time, he was not part of the NDA. This time, his party wants 40 seats. He has no MLA at present. In the last assembly elections, his party won one seat and came second in 14. In the Lok Sabha elections, he secured five seats despite being the only MP of his party earlier. However, his only MLA later joined JDU. JDU may not have performed well in the Lok Sabha elections, but it has 12 MPs, the same as BJP. Nitish has stated that he will stay with NDA. BJP also supports Nitish as a key partner.
Nitish remains the NDA leader
After the meeting, Chirag again confirmed that Nitish will remain the CM face in Bihar. BJP, RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, and Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi have said the same. A past statement by Union Home Minister and BJP MP Amit Shah had raised questions about a possible political shift, but Nitish has shown he can manage tough situations. Though JDU is the third-largest party in the assembly, Nitish is the CM. He has never formed a government with his party alone, but has always had enough support. Monday’s meeting shows that Chirag is not planning to challenge this for now.
