The political landscape in Bihar is once again abuzz with speculation following RJD chief Lalu Yadav’s recent remark that the “doors are open” for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to rejoin the INDIA Bloc. This has reignited discussions about Kumar’s history of shifting alliances, leading many to wonder if another U-turn is on the horizon.
On Thursday, Kumar responded cryptically to Yadav’s comments, choosing not to elaborate. Instead, he folded his hands and smiled, simply stating, “Kya bol rahe hain (What are you saying?)” This non-committal response has left political analysts pondering the implications of Yadav’s overture.
Our doors are open for Nitish Kumar
Lalu Yadav’s statement suggested that if Nitish Kumar could “unbolt his gates,” it would facilitate movement between the two political factions. “Our doors are open for Nitish Kumar,” Yadav said, hinting at the possibility of rekindling their political alliance.
The comment has reignited speculation about a potential reunion between the Janata Dal (United) and the RJD, given their history of volatile alliances. Kumar has allied with the RJD twice in the past decade, most recently in the Mahagathbandhan, before shifting back to the BJP-led NDA in 2024.
Tejashwi Yadav, Bihar’s former Deputy Chief Minister and son of Lalu Prasad Yadav, downplayed his father’s remarks, suggesting they were merely intended to “satisfy the media’s curiosity.” Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of Bihar’s new Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan, Tejashwi remarked, “What else would he (Lalu Yadav) say? He was just responding to your questions.”
However, Tejashwi hinted that the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government might come to an end in the new year, accusing Kumar of being influenced by a small group of advisors and losing his ability to govern Bihar independently.
In response to the speculation, Union Minister and JD(U) leader Lalan Singh dismissed Lalu Yadav’s comments, asserting that the NDA remains strong with the JD(U) and BJP united. “People can say whatever they want — this is a free country,” he added, reinforcing the current coalition’s stability.
