The resignation of Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister of Bihar has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, particularly with the dissolution of the Mahagathbandhan, leaving the INDIA Alliance in disarray. Kumar’s swift departure from the coalition, which he had joined less than 18 months ago, has not only marked a significant shift in Bihar’s political dynamics but has also raised questions about the viability of a credible opposition against the BJP in the upcoming parliament polls.
Nitish Kumar’s political journey, characterized by frequent shifts between alliances, reached a turning point as he resigned and returned to the BJP-led NDA. Ironically, he had played a key role in stitching together the opposition bloc INDIA. His collaboration with the RJD, led by his former arch-rival Lalu Prasad, in August 2022 was aimed at countering the BJP’s influence in the region.
The unraveling of the INDIA Alliance comes at a crucial juncture when political opposition unity was seen as a key strategy to challenge the dominance of the BJP. Nitish Kumar’s efforts to bring together diverse parties to form this bloc now face a setback, as the chief architect himself departs, leaving a void in the coalition. The alliance, which included various regional players, had hoped to present a formidable front against the BJP in the upcoming elections. Now it finds itself weakened and adrift.
The impact of Kumar’s resignation extends beyond Bihar, resonating at the national level.The INDIA Alliance now faces the challenge of regaining its footing and presenting a united front.
The BJP, seizing the opportunity, has formed a new government in Bihar with the support of Nitish Kumar’s JD(U). The political landscape, once marked by a delicate balance of alliances, is now witnessing a significant realignment. The power dynamics in Bihar have undergone a transformation that could have far-reaching consequences on the national political scenario.
In the aftermath of Nitish Kumar’s resignation, the INDIA Alliance must grapple with internal dissension, credibility challenges, and the urgent need to find a charismatic leader capable of rallying diverse parties. This seems easier said than done. Since its formation in the middle of last year, the INDIA Alliance has failed to get its act together. The alliance has so far been unable to conclude even the seat-sharing arrangement. Similarly, there has been little progress on formulating a cogent political narrative to combat the BJP’s overriding Hindutva plank. The urgency for such a narrative can’t be underestimated after the inauguration of Ram Mandir which has generated a groundswell in favour of the BJP. Time is running out fast.
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