Nitish Kumar Assures Amit Shah: No More Break-Ups with BJP

 Never Again: Nitish Kumar Assures Amit Shah, Rules Out Future Break-Up with BJP

Patna, March 30, 2025: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has made it clear that he will not break ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) again, calling his past departures from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) "mistakes" that he won’t repeat. Addressing Union Home Minister Amit Shah at an event in Patna, Kumar admitted his political miscalculations and reaffirmed his commitment to the BJP-led alliance ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls.

"I committed the mistake twice. But it is going to be never again," Kumar declared in front of Amit Shah and several other senior BJP leaders, emphasizing his long-term commitment to the NDA.

Nitish Kumar's Political U-Turns: A Timeline

Nitish Kumar’s political journey has been marked by multiple shifts in alliances. Having been a key ally of the BJP since the 1990s, he first broke ties with the party in 2013 when Narendra Modi was announced as the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. However, in 2017, Kumar returned to the NDA, citing governance concerns under the Mahagathbandhan with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). In 2022, he once again severed ties with the BJP to join the opposition-led INDIA bloc, only to return to the NDA fold in 2024.

His latest statement suggests a final resolution in his political stance, ensuring stability within the NDA as the Lok Sabha elections approach.

Bihar’s Progress Under NDA Rule

During his speech, Nitish Kumar highlighted the developmental progress Bihar has witnessed under his leadership in alliance with the BJP. He pointed out improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure since his government took charge in 2005. Kumar criticized previous governments for neglecting these sectors and reaffirmed his commitment to continuing Bihar’s transformation.

He also addressed concerns about communal harmony, stating that previous governments failed to prevent riots despite securing votes from minority communities. According to Kumar, his administration has prioritized law and order, ensuring safety and development for all sections of society.

Amit Shah Welcomes Nitish Kumar’s Commitment

Union Home Minister Amit Shah welcomed Kumar’s declaration, stating that the NDA is now stronger than ever. Shah emphasized the importance of unity within the alliance for the upcoming elections and assured continued support for Bihar’s development.

"With Nitish Kumar’s leadership and our collective efforts, we will ensure Bihar’s progress and a strong performance in the 2024 elections. The NDA is united and committed to serving the people of Bihar," Shah remarked.

Political Analysts React

Kumar’s statement has sparked mixed reactions from political analysts and opposition leaders. While BJP leaders see it as a sign of stability within the NDA, the opposition has criticized him for frequent political realignments.

"Nitish Kumar has lost credibility due to his frequent U-turns. How can the people trust him when he keeps switching sides?" an RJD leader commented.

However, political experts believe that Kumar’s move strengthens the NDA’s position in Bihar, a crucial battleground state in Indian politics. His experience and governance record could help the alliance secure a significant number of seats in the elections.

Implications for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections

With Bihar contributing 40 seats to the Lok Sabha, Nitish Kumar’s alignment with the NDA is a strategic advantage for the BJP. The opposition INDIA bloc had hoped to leverage Kumar’s influence in Bihar, but his return to the NDA has reshaped the political dynamics in the state.

The BJP, along with its allies, is now focused on mobilizing voters and ensuring a strong electoral performance. Nitish Kumar’s promise of a stable alliance eliminates uncertainties, giving the NDA a clear advantage over its rivals.

The Challenges Ahead

Despite Nitish Kumar’s renewed commitment to the BJP, political observers note that challenges remain for the NDA in Bihar. The opposition, led by the RJD and the Congress, is likely to capitalize on Kumar’s past flip-flops to question his credibility among voters. Moreover, caste dynamics and local grievances could also play a role in shaping the electoral outcome.

Nitish Kumar and the BJP will have to work together to address voter concerns and present a strong development agenda. The upcoming campaign is expected to focus on key issues like employment, rural development, and infrastructure growth to gain the trust of Bihar’s electorate.

Public Opinion and Ground Reality

Public reaction to Nitish Kumar’s declaration has been mixed. While BJP supporters and NDA allies have welcomed his commitment, some voters remain skeptical about his frequent political shifts. In rural Bihar, where local leaders hold significant influence, the narrative around Nitish Kumar’s trustworthiness will be a crucial factor in the elections.

A recent survey conducted in Patna and other key districts suggested that while Nitish Kumar still enjoys considerable support, there is also a growing demand for newer leadership faces in the state. The youth, in particular, are keen to see more employment opportunities and industrial development.

The Opposition's Response

The RJD, Congress, and other opposition parties have wasted no time in attacking Nitish Kumar over his remarks. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav took a dig at Kumar, calling him an "opportunistic leader" who switches alliances for power rather than principles.

"Nitish Kumar has made a joke out of Bihar’s politics. The people of Bihar are watching, and they will give their verdict in the elections," Yadav said during a press conference.

The opposition’s strategy seems to focus on highlighting Kumar’s history of alliance shifts, aiming to portray him as an unreliable leader.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Bihar’s Politics?

Nitish Kumar’s assurance to Amit Shah that he will never break ties with the BJP again marks a significant moment in Bihar’s political landscape. His acknowledgment of past mistakes and commitment to a stable alliance could influence voter sentiment in the upcoming elections.

However, the road ahead is not without hurdles. The NDA will need to counter opposition narratives, strengthen its grassroots network, and deliver a compelling vision for Bihar’s future to ensure electoral success.

As the Lok Sabha elections approach, the political scenario in Bihar remains dynamic. Will Nitish Kumar’s latest decision strengthen the NDA’s position, or will his past political shifts impact voter trust? The coming months will reveal ho

w this bold declaration plays out on the electoral battlefield.