Patna (The Hawk): On November 3, a byelection will be held for the Mokama Assembly seat, and on Wednesday, JDU national president Lalan Singh campaigned for Neelam Devi, the widow of jailed 'Bahubali' leader Anant Singh.
Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, is rumoured to be actively supporting her.
The odds of Neelam Devi's victory over Mokama, as predicted by Lalan Singh, are unprecedented.
He had run against Anant Singh, the RJD's candidate in the 2020 Assembly election, in Mokama and won. Lalan Singh was a member of the NDA at the time and saw Anant Singh in a negative political light.
Because of the new political dynamic, Lalan Singh and Anant Singh are now a couple. After Anant Singh's conviction and 10-year sentence in an AK-47 rifle and hand grenade case by the MLA-MLC court of Patna, the Mokama seat became vacant around three months ago.
Lalan Singh, the representative for Munger, also has a considerable following in Mokama. The fact that Anant Singh has been the representative for the district for the past 17 years also bodes well for his wife's chances of becoming elected.
Neelam Devi bowed deeply and touched the soles of Lalan Singh's feet when he made it to Mokama for the road show. Former Law Minister Kartikeya Singh, Lalan Singh's wife Neelam Devi, and Lalan Singh all participated in the road show.
"It's clear that the grand alliance candidate will win with the amount of support we're getting. On November 6, when the by-election results are announced, you will realise that Neelam Devi has set a new standard. In both the Mokama and Gopalganj elections, the BJP has no candidates. They'll lose by a wide margin "His words.
The BJP's candidate, Sonam Devi, the wife of another strongman named Lalan Singh, is running against Neelam Devi.
(Inputs from Agencies)

On November 3, a byelection will be held for the Mokama Assembly seat, and on Wednesday, JDU national president Lalan Singh campaigned for Neelam Devi, the widow of jailed 'Bahubali' leader Anant Singh.

In Mokama, Lalan Singh runs a campaign for Anant Singh's spouse

New Delhi: After a long political career, Sharad Yadav, the former leader of the JD(U), passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Gurugram, according to family members. He was 75.
His wife, a daughter, and a son all live on after him.
According to a statement released by the Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Yadav was brought to the emergency ward while he was in unconscious and unresponsive state.—Inputs from Agencies

After a long political career, Sharad Yadav, the former leader of the JD(U), passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Gurugram, according to family members

Former JD(U) chief Sharad Yadav died; PM Modi, Bihar Dy CM express condolences.

Patna: Two-time MP Meena Singh, who quit the JD-U in the beginning of March, on Sunday joined the BJP in presence of Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai, Bihar unit President Sanjay Jaiswal and party leader Samrat Chaudhary.
On Sunday, her son Vishal Singh and more than 10,000 supporters joined the BJP as well at an event at the Bapu Sabhagar here.
Meena Singh is considered as a prominent leader with a stronghold in Bhojpur and Rohtas districts. Her husband Ajit Singh was also a very strong leader of the region. She was not pleased with the decision of Chief Minister and party chief Nitish Kumar who had announced Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as his political successor. "I and my husband fought against the Jungle Raj for our entire life. During the Lalu-Rabri government, people of Bihar experienced the Jungle Raj. At that time, Bihar was having complete lawlessness. After the decision of Nitish Kumar to hand over the political legacy to Tejashwi Yadav, I firmly believe that the Jungle Raj will return in Bihar. Hence, my son and I resigned from the JD-U," she said.
"I have complete faith in the progressive nature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Hence, I have joined the BJP," she added.
The exit of Meena Singh could be a big jolt for the JD-U and Nitish Kumar in Bhojpuri belt of Bhojpur, Rohtas, Buxar and Kaimur districts as she is an influential leader among upper castes in these districts. Earlier, Upendra Kushwaha and R.C.P. Singh also left the JD-U. With the ruling dispensation in Bihar comprising seven parties, distribution of tickets will be a great challenge for Nitish Kumar, who will need to satisfy each and every party of the Mahagathbandhan. Compared to this, the BJP may find it easier as it is the only opposition party in the state. Meena Singh and her son will have a greater chance of gaining a ticket in the BJP. Meena Singh won the Bikramganj Lok Sabha constituency for the JD-U in the 2008 by-election after the death of her husband. She was also elected from Arrah Lok Sabha constituency in 2009, but lost from there in the 2014 election and did not contest in 2019.
—IANS

 Two-time MP Meena Singh, who quit the JD-U in the beginning of March, on Sunday joined the BJP in presence of Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai, Bihar unit President Sanjay Jaiswal and party leader Samrat Chaudhary.

Days After Quitting JD-U, Two-Time MP Joins BJP With Son, Supporters

New Delhi: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar met with Left heavyweights Sitaram Yechury and D Raja on Thursday as part of an effort to consolidate opposition unity. The BJP, however, took a jab at the JDU leader's outreach, saying, "the PM post for 2024 is not vacant."
As part of the efforts to bring numerous opposition parties together on a same platform to defeat the BJP in 2024 Lok Sabha polls, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar will be meeting Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge later this evening, where Rahul Gandhi will also be present.
More discussions between the leaders are anticipated for the next few days, so it's probable that unity talks will progress. The Congress will shortly call a gathering of the most prominent opposition figures.—Inputs from Agencies

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar met with Left heavyweights Sitaram Yechury and D Raja on Thursday as part of an effort to consolidate opposition unity. The BJP, however, took a jab at the JDU leader's outreach, saying, "the PM post for 2024 is not vacant."

Leaders' discussions boost opposition unity

Patna: Following the third meeting of INDIA alliance in Mumbai, a war of words has erupted in Bihar between JD-U and BJP, labeling each other as ‘tabalchi’ and ‘jackal’.  JD-U Spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said that more political parties are becoming part of the INDIA alliance after its first meet on June 23.  He said that during the Patna meeting only 16 parties participated which increased to 26 parties in the Karnataka meeting. In Mumbai more parties have joined the alliance.  “On the other hand, the NDA alliance has to follow the words of whatever Modi-Shah say. All alliance partners have become Tabalchi. If they do not play Tabla according to Modi-Shah what tells them, they will be thrown out from the NDA,” Kumar said.  Meanwhile, the BJP Spokesperson Arvind Kumar Singh said that Prime Minister Modi has come for the development of the country and roars like a lion.  “On the other hand, jackals are doing meeting after meeting to challenge him. They cannot stand before a lion. The people of the country have made him PM to for development. They will make him PM again and the intention of jackals will fail in the 2024 LS polls,” he said.  The INDIA alliance held its third meeting in Mumbai on Friday and also formed various committees to overlook the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.  Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that it is impossible for the BJP to win as the 60 per cent population is represented on the stage of INDIA.  He slammed the government saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP is a nexus of corruption and that is the first time the alliance will demonstrate and prove.  Addressing the press conference here after the two-day meeting, Rahul Gandhi said: “Two very big steps were taken. The most important thing is to understand that this stage represents 60 per cent of the population. If the party on the stage unite, it is impossible for the BJP to win the election.”  He said that the task in front of us is to come together in the most efficient ways.  He said that the two steps taken by INDIA is formation of the coordination committee and committees under it and the second step is that we will expedite the seat sharing decision and discussions.  “These are two powerful steps to ensure we defeat BJP,” he said, adding there is a clear nexus between the Prime minister and the particular businessman. —IANS

Following the third meeting of INDIA alliance in Mumbai, a war of words has erupted in Bihar between JD-U and BJP

‘Tabalchi to Jackal’: War of words erupt between JD-U, BJP over INDIA’s meet

Patna: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday arrested JD-U MLC Radha Charan Sah in connection with a disproportionate assets case under Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Sah was arrested following a day-long raid at his premises in Arrah on Wednesday. Sah is facing charges of owning disproportionate assets.
Separate teams of ED conducted raids on six premises belonging to Shah in Patna, Arrah and other places in Bihar on Wednesday.
Sah used to own a sweet shop outside the Arrah railway station a few years ago. Now, he has become a billionaire and has properties in several states. Sources said that he is also involved in sand mining and has earned crores of rupees in the last few years.
A week ago, the ED had served notices to Sah and his son Kanhaiya Sah, asking them to submit a written reply with the department. The father-son duo had submitted the reply, but the ED was not satisfied with it.
—IANS

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday arrested JD-U MLC Radha Charan Sah in connection with a disproportionate assets case 

ED arrests JD-U MLC in disproportionate assets case

Patna (Bihar): Janata Dal-United (JDU) National President Lalan Singh on Thursday set aside speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JDU Chief Nitish Kumar returning to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led alliance, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) stating that the BJP's job is to mislead.  "The BJP is a 'Kanfuska' party. Their job is to mislead. Every day, there are reports being disseminated that Nitish Kumar is getting closer to BJP. The BJP is not even eligible to be looked at by Nitish Kumar. Did BJP and its Government fulfil any of the promises it made to the people of the country?" Lalan Singh said.&nbsp;
Earlier on Monday, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar dismissed the speculations of his return to the NDA saying that he has been working to unite the opposition.  "You all know, I have been working to unite the Opposition. I have nothing to do with what others say..." CM Kumar said while speaking to the reporters in Bihar's Patna.  He also did not attend the inauguration ceremony of the Vande Bharat Express in Patna on Sunday.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Union Minister Giriraj Singh reacted to Lalan Singh's remark stating that all doors to the BJP are closed for Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;
"BJP has clarified quite early that all doors to the BJP are closed for Nitish Kumar. This matter doesn't arise from our side, these things come out of their activities...We don't abuse Nitish ji or call him 'palturam'. That is what his nephew, who is now his Deputy CM, calls him. His political credibility is gone and that is why people make speculations and Lalu ji get scared..." Giriraj Singh said while speaking to reporters.  Last year, Nitish Kumar quit the NDA and joined the alliance named 'Mahagathbandhan' with the RJD.  'Mahagathbandhan' is a coalition of political parties including RJD, JDU and the Congress among others, formed ahead of the Bihar assembly polls in 2015.
—ANI

Janata Dal-United (JDU) National President Lalan Singh on Thursday set aside speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JDU Chief Nitish Kumar

"BJP's job is to mislead...": JDU president Lalan Singh sets aside speculations of Nitish Kumar returning to NDA 

Patna (Bihar): Janata Dal United (JDU) MLA Gopal Mandal got enraged when asked by journalists why he had carried a revolver to a hospital recently and said, "Baap ho ki mana karoge?" "Ha, lehrayethe (Yes, I brandished my weapon). Tum log humare baap ho ki mana karoge? (Are you my father that you will stop me?)" the JDU Minister said in a heated moment, speaking to reporters in Patna on Friday.
The MLA was also heard hurling expletives at the reporters surrounding him.
However, initially, Mandal tried to tone down his action saying that he had placed his revolver in his pyjamas and it slipped. "I had taken the revolver and kept it in my pyjama. Just when I placed my foot on the stairs it slipped. Are you journalists or what. I find it difficult placing it on my waist," he said. The JDU MLA waded into a controversy when a video surfaced in which he was purportedly holding a pistol while walking into the state-run Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College and Hospital in Bihar's Bhagalpur. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has earlier criticised the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar for bringing about 'jungle raj' (reign of crime) in the state. The video offers fresh ammunition to the BJP.
—ANI

Janata Dal United (JDU) MLA Gopal Mandal got enraged when asked by journalists why he had carried a revolver to a hospital recently

"Are you my father that you will stop me?" says JD-U MLA when asked about brandishing revolver at hospital

Bhagalpur (Bihar) [India]: JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal on Friday said that the common public does not know Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and it is Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who should become the Prime Minister candidate for the INDIA bloc. "Public does not who 'Kharge Pharge' is. Even I don't know he was the president of Congress. Nobody knows him. Masses don't know him. The public knows Nitish Kumar. Nitish Kumar should become Prime Minister. He is popular all over India," JDU MLA Gopal Mandal said.
Mandal, JD(U) MLA from Gopalpur Assembly said that it was his party president Nitish Kumar who played a key role in stitching the INDIA bloc. "Everything was done by Nitish Kumar. Nitish Kumar played the role of convenor when the alliance was named INDIA. He gathered all the regional leaders and helped in bringing them together for meetings again and again. They should choose Nitish Kumar as the Prime Minister's face," he said. JDU MLA also targeted Congress and said that it is a party that cannot be trusted by the public. "Congress party is not worth trusting. It was Congress under which people faced the brunt of inflation and rising prices. BJP came into power only due to their poor policies. Now BJP has taken inflation to another level. So why to pick faces of the past, pick new faces," Mandal said. Earlier in the fourth meeting of the INDIA bloc, which took place in the national capital, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's name was proposed as the prime ministerial candidate for the INDIA bloc by Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal in the just-held meeting in the national, where all 28 partners have converged to chalk plans for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.  Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has played down suggestions about being the prime ministerial candidate of the INDIA bloc for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and said the matter will be decided later and their priority is to try and get a majority. "First, all of us have to win, we should think about what needs to be done for victory. Who will be PM, this will be decided later. If there are fewer MPs, what is the point of talking about the PM? First, to increase our numbers, (by) coming together, we will try to bring the majority. First, we will have to win," Kharge told reporters after the INDIA meeting on Tuesday. Also, Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir rejected media reports that stated that the Bihar Chief Minister was unhappy over Kharge's name being proposed for PM candidature. "The meeting went on for five to six hours. The meeting was crucial and effective. It was concluded on a good note. If some media reports are claiming that Nitish Kumarji was unhappy over the meeting, there might be some 'vested interest' but I reckon that he is the convener of the alliance and he will make it reach its destination," he said.  The fourth meeting of the 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc took place in the national capital Tuesday and was attended by leaders from 28 alliance partners. INDIA or 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance' is a group of opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
—ANI

JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal on Friday said that the common public does not know Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge

"Who is this Kharge-Pharge, nobody knows him": JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal on PM face suggestions at INDIA bloc meet

New Delhi [India]: Even as the Janata Dal United holds its key National Executive at the Constitution club in New Delhi on Friday, it has emerged that Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh has offered his resignation as Janata Dal-United national president on Friday. The move comes even as speculations of a leadership change in the Party were being made. The JD(U) national executive is currently underway at the Constitution Club in Delhi. Lalan Singh was also attending the meeting along with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and other party leaders.  Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/victory-of-diplomatic-efforts-of-modi-govt:-bjp-on-qatar-court-commuting-death-sentence-of-8-indians" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/victory-of-diplomatic-efforts-of-modi-govt:-bjp-on-qatar-court-commuting-death-sentence-of-8-indians</a>&nbsp;
Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary confirmed the offer of resignation from Lalan Singh saying "There is a national executive meeting of JD(U) going on. If they accept our proposal, then Nitish Kumar will be the party president. Lalan Singh told CM Nitish Kumar that he will be busy with elections, so he wants to hand over the post of party president to him and Nitish Kumar accepted it..." Nitish Kumar is now set to take over as JDU President even as the party braces for the Lok Sabha Elections in 2024 and the Assembly Elections in 2025. Earlier in the day, some members of JDU were seen raising slogans "Desh ka Pradhan Mantri kaisa ho? Nitish Kumar jaisa ho" outside the Constitution Club in Delhi where the national executive meeting is underway. The meeting comes just days after the critical INDIA alliance meeting in Delhi. The JDU which is part of the alliance will now be getting into hectic parleys with the Congress on the alliance combination for the state.  Many JDU leaders are making a pitch for Nitish to lead the INDIA bloc, even as Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal publicly announced Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge as prospective PM Candidate. At the national executive meeting venue, posters featuring Bihar CM Nitish Kumar read 'Pradesh ne pehchana, ab desh bhi pehchanega' (The state of Bihar recognised him, now the nation will) have also been put up.&nbsp;
—ANI

Even as the Janata Dal United holds its key National Executive at the Constitution club in New Delhi on Friday, it has emerged that

Lalan Singh offers resignation as Party President at JDU National Executive, Nitish Kumar set to return as party boss

Patna (Bihar) [India]: Hours after it became evident that Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh has offered to resign as Janata Dal-United (JD(U)) national president, Bihar Leader of Opposition (LoP) Vijay Kumar Sinha said that a self-respecting person never accepts this type of farewell and he should have offered his resignation earlier. "A self-respecting person never accepts this type of farewell. When the party and the leadership do not have confidence in him, there is no point in holding that post. He (Lalan Singh) should have resigned earlier," Sinha said, speaking to ANI on Friday.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/congress-confirms-invitation-for-ram-mandir-consecration-distances-itself-from-sam-pitroda's-remark" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/congress-confirms-invitation-for-ram-mandir-consecration-distances-itself-from-sam-pitroda's-remark</a>&nbsp;
Speaking on the way the entire episode played out while the JD(U) national executive meeting was underway, the LoP said, "The way the whole scene played out before the press and media is shameful."
Lalan Singh's offer of resignation comes amid speculation of a leadership change in the party. Lalan Singh was also attending the party national executive meeting in the Constitution Club in Delhi, along with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other party leaders. Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary confirmed the offer of resignation from Lalan Singh saying "There is a national executive meeting of JD(U) going on. If they accept our proposal, then Nitish Kumar will be the party president. Lalan Singh told CM Nitish Kumar that he will be busy with elections, so he wants to hand over the post of party president to him and Nitish Kumar accepted it..." Nitish Kumar is now set to take over as JDU president even as the party braces for the Lok Sabha Elections in 2024 and the Assembly Elections in 2025.  Earlier in the day, some members of JDU were seen raising slogans "Desh ka Pradhan Mantri kaisa ho? Nitish Kumar jaisa ho" outside the Constitution Club in Delhi. The meeting comes just days after the critical INDIA alliance meeting in Delhi. The JDU which is part of the alliance will now be getting into hectic parleys with the Congress on the alliance combination for the state.
—ANI

Hours after it became evident that Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh has offered to resign as Janata Dal-United (JD(U)) national president

Should have done earlier: Vijay Kumar Sinha on Lalan Singh's offer of resignation

Patna: After Lalan Singh resigned as JD-U national president, Bihar BJP President Samrat Choudhary said that this is the internal matter of JD-U and the sffron party has nothing to do with it.  “Lalan Singh has given the resignation but it has nothing to do with the BJP. It is an internal matter of JD-U. I want to say that JD-U and RJD will contest together and BJP will defeat them in the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha election,” Choudhary said.
 Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/lalan-singh-offers-resignation-as-party-president-at-jdu-national-executive-nitish-kumar-set-to-return-as-party-boss" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/lalan-singh-offers-resignation-as-party-president-at-jdu-national-executive-nitish-kumar-set-to-return-as-party-boss</a>  “Nitish Kumar always centralises power in his own hands. He sometimes makes RCP Singh as a national president of the party and sometimes Lalan Singh. I still say, BJP is ready to fight against 'INDI' alliance in the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections,” he said.  BJP spokesperson Arvind Kumar Singh said: “Lalan Singh lost the trust of Nitish Kumar. He was close to RJD and Lalu Prasad Yadav and it looks like JD-U may split any time. Keeping in view of this, Nitish Kumar took charge of it and the result came in the form of resignation of Lalan Singh. The news about the resignation of Lalan Singh was running in the media for quite some time.”  Following the resignation of Lalan Singh, some JD-U supporters and leaders celebrated in Patna head office, distributed sweets and burst crackers.
—IANS

After Lalan Singh resigned as JD-U national president, Bihar BJP President Samrat Choudhary said that this is the internal matter of JD-U

Internal matter of JD-U: BJP on Lalan Singh's resignation

Patna: In a twist of events at Raj Bhavan on Republic Day there was a gathering where Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar made an appearance, which caught peoples attention amid rumors of potential disagreements within the ruling Mahagathbandhan coalition. It is worth noting that Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav from the RJD was conspicuously absent from the event further fueling speculations about discord. The seating arrangements drew interest as the seat to Chief Minister Kumar usually reserved for Tejashwi Yadav was taken by senior JD(U) leader and minister Ashok Kumar Choudhary. It is said that Choudhary even removed a slip with Yadavs name before taking his place. During the tea ceremony arranged to celebrate Republic Day Vijay Kumar Sinha of the BJP (Leader of Opposition in the assembly) engaged in friendly conversations with Chief Minister Kumar. While Education Minister Alok Kumar Mehta ( a national general secretary of RJD) attended the event, Tejashwi Yadav and several other party leaders like Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary chose not to participate.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/potential-collapse-of-bihar-government-in-the-next-few-days-warns-bjp-ally-ham-(s)" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/potential-collapse-of-bihar-government-in-the-next-few-days-warns-bjp-ally-ham-(s)</a> There are speculations circulating about Chief Minister Kumars dissatisfaction within Mahagathbandhan. A coalition comprising Congress and RJD with support from three Left parties, from outside. There have been rumors circulating about the possibility of the JD(U) supremo returning to the BJP led NDA. However leaders from the BJP have made it clear that they currently have no intention of welcoming him The JD(U) leaders are steadfast in their commitment to the opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc. Want to dispel any speculation, about any immediate political realignment. 
—Input from Agencies

Intrigue in Bihar politics as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attends Republic Day high tea, while Tejashwi Yadav's absence fuels speculation.

Bihar: Nitish Attends Raj Bhavan High Tea, Tejashwi Absent on Republic Day

Patna (Bihar): In a statement Union Minister Giriraj Singh has proclaimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to establish governance in Bihar by 2025. Disregarding any speculations about Nitish Kumar potentially rejoining the BJP Singh referred to the Chief Minister of Bihar as someone who seems restless and asserted that the people of Bihar would vote for the BJP in both the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the state elections in 2025.  Singh expressed, "We are confident that we will come into power in Bihar by 2025. The citizens of Bihar will show their support to the BJP during both state level elections. I am closely observing all developments within the state."  Addressing the split between JD(U) and BJP that occurred in 2022 leading to the formation of a grand alliance government with RJD, JD(U) Congress and Left parties Singh referred to Nitish Kumar as someone who appears restless but clarified that BJP played no role in shaping these political dynamics between RJD and JD(U).
 Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/bihar-grand-alliance-stable:-rjd's-tiwary" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/bihar-grand-alliance-stable:-rjd's-tiwary</a>&nbsp;
 Concerning political events Singh mentioned, "The BJP is keeping a close watch, on these activities; however our involvement is limited. The responsibility of providing explanations regarding these developments lies with Lalu Yadav, RJD, Tejashwi Yadav or Nitish Kumar."When asked about the reasons for the tension between RJD and JD(U) Singh suggested that Lalu Yadavs preference for Rahul Gandhi over Nitish Kumar during the INDIA bloc meeting in Patna might have caused the disagreement. He further alleged that Nitish Kumar had left the BJP with aspirations of becoming Prime Minister. Lalu Yadavs support for Rahul Gandhi impeded his ambitions.  In the meantime Dilip Jaiswal, BJP Chief Whip in the Bihar Legislative Council expressed willingness to consider political scenarios to ensure a strong government under Narendra Modis leadership in 2024. He indicated that if Nitish Kumar wishes to join BJP for the good there is an open invitation.  Responding to rumors of a rift within the Mahagathbandhan alliance RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha dismissed them as mere speculation. RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari emphasized the resilience of the Nitish Tejashwi government in Bihar affirming that their party remains dedicated to serving welfare.  Speculation continues regarding Nitish Kumars return to NDA, an alliance he departed from in 2022 to form Mahagathbandhan. The recent discord, within the alliance was triggered by remarks made by Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD President Lalu Prasad Yadav questioning JDUs ideology. If Nitish were to switch sides it would mark his fourth political allegiance change. The Bihar Assembly, which consists of 243 members has the RJD as the party with the number of seats, at 79. The BJP closely follows with 78 seats while JD(U) holds 45 seats. The Congress party has 19 seats, CPI (M L) has 12 seats and the remaining seats are held by parties and independent candidates.
—Input from Agencies

Union Minister Giriraj Singh predicts BJP's triumph in Bihar by 2025, addressing Nitish Kumar's role and the evolving political dynamics in the state.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh Confident: BJP to Form Government in Bihar in 2025

Patna: There is a lot of speculation that Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of Bihar and the leader of the 'Mahagathbandhan' government might submit his resignation by Sunday morning. A reliable source close to the CM mentioned this on Saturday although they preferred to remain anonymous while talking to PTI. While there is a chance that he might resign late on Saturday it is more likely to happen by Sunday morning.  To prepare for his resignation, Kumar, who's also the president of JD(U) will hold a regular meeting with the legislature party. In addition government offices, including the secretariat have been asked to stay open on Sunday due to expected activity during the day. This surge in activity could potentially lead to the formation of a government with support from BJP.  Meanwhile at a party meeting state BJP leaders refrained from making an announcement regarding their support for Nitish Kumar if he withdraws from 'Mahagathbandhan'. Sources, within BJP revealed that top leadership has instructed them not to make any announcements until Kumar officially resigns. It's worth noting that Nitish Kumar had left NDA than three years ago.
 —Input from Agencies

Explore the unfolding political drama in Bihar as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar contemplates resignation from the Mahagathbandhan government.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Expected to Resign Sunday

Patna: Bihars Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar recently disclosed that the situation within the 'Mahagathbandhan' ( alliance) formed a year and a half ago was far from satisfactory leading to his decision to step down from his position. After submitting his resignation letter to the Governor Nitish Kumar addressed the media explaining that he resigned as minister and requested the dissolution of the government due to internal issues within the ruling alliance in Bihar.  Nitish Kumar, who leads JD(U) further elaborated on the challenges faced by the alliance emphasizing their failure to meet expectations and fulfill essential obligations outlined in their common minimum program. He attributed this breakdown to communication issues within the coalition, which ultimately led him to sever all ties. The Governors office confirmed acceptance of Nitish Kumars resignation. Appointed him as acting Chief Minister until suitable arrangements are made.
 Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/%22anticipated-move%22-affirms-mallikarjun-kharge-as-nitish-kumar-departs-mahagathbandhan" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/%22anticipated-move%22-affirms-mallikarjun-kharge-as-nitish-kumar-departs-mahagathbandhan</a>&nbsp;
 In response to this upheaval, Jairam Ramesh, a prominent Congress leader expressed criticism through an official statement. Ramesh accused Nitish Kumar of opportunism and betraying public trust. He suggested that this move might have been orchestrated as a tactic from Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and alleged fear, from both the Prime Minister and BJP.  The sudden change in circumstances has sparked speculation about Nitish Kumar possibly rejoining the BJP led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) which could potentially bring an end to the 'Mahagathbandhan' rule in Bihar. This shift was triggered by a social media post from Rohini Acharya, daughter of CM and RJD chief Lalu Yadav questioning JD(U)s ideology and its consistency.  With Nitish Kumar formally submitting his resignation to Governor Rajendra Arlekar at Raj Bhavan in Patna the political landscape in Bihar has become uncertain leaving room, for significant realignments in the days ahead. If Nitish decides to switch sides it would mark the time he has made such a political maneuver throughout his career.

Bihar in turmoil as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar resigns, citing alliance discord. Governor's acceptance sparks speculations on political realignments.

Nitish Kumar Resigns as Chief Minister, Cites Internal Strife within Mahagathbandhan

"Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti" --- a la Nitish Kumar, the way he is repeatedly displaying to the "samoocha" {all} Biharvaasee, Bharatvaasee his "neejee kranti" [being widely termed as "2024-ka-Sampoorna Kraantee"] to stay on as Bihar Chief Minister uninturrupted for 9th time-in-row come what may, disproving / disapproving all reliable, unreliable rumours, "kite flying" be what the political situations, political requirements are / needed, doesn't matter, stay on as the CM, commonly / generally observe the commonly posing "politically all-knowing" Bihar-denizens by and large. They are being confirmed by the "samoocha" Bihar state's political parties including the Rashtriyaa Janata Dal headed by Laloo Prasad Yadav, his kith and kin, the Congress, the JD(U), the splinter parties, riff-raffs, itsy-bitsies rather comically, circastically, tongue-in-cheek. Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti, la Nitish Kumar, how? 1: Self-claimed Samajwad Nitish Kumar is evincing only a Samajwad (known for accomodating all, adjusting with all) is 100% capable / calibred / worthy of remaining Bihar CM in the midst of all oddities, gauche, "oothak-pathak" {topsy-turvy}, disturbances, chicanery, cospiracies, espionage, helter-skelter, turbulenbe, whirlwind, predicaments. 2: He is the only true living Samajwad; others like George Fernandez dead or few remaining about to like Laloo Prasad Yadav. 3: A Samajwad like Nitish Kumar today is widely claimed to be tailor made CM for Bihar that is full of dilemma, acute vagaries, contradictions, confusions, confabulations, contrasts, hegemonies, static but ineffective rather -Ve social milieu, incongruous practices, anachronous practises...He thus aptly suits the BJP that under "Mananiya" Narendra Modi wants entire Bharat to equally prosper, political ideologies, practices, beliefs dumped in to ocean. Since Nitish Kumar too equally partakes of the BJP-view, they are Bhai-Bhai, point out insiders, 'made for each other' 24x7x365' throwing aside the "flimsy, flippant, aimless, egoccentric, artificial I.N.D.I.A. good-for-nothing". That's Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti aiming only to +Ve power. "Thus, Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti, la Nitish Kumar", Comment Shrewd, Notable Laconic + Cogent Observers.
—Soumitra Bose

Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti: Nitish Kumar's resilient leadership, defying odds, secures 9th term as Bihar Chief Minister.

Aaj Ka Sampoorna Kranti

Patna: Legislators have reached the Bihar Assembly ahead of the critical floor test of the Nitish Kumar government. JDU legislators were seen sporting the victory sign as they entered the house. The JDU is confident of scoring the numbers to ensure the government's survival. Amid huddles and shifting of MLAs to secure locations in the state or beyond ahead of the crucial trust vote, both the JDU-NDA alliance and the RJD party claimed to have the majority.JDU leader Neeraj Kumar said, "Majority will be in favour of NDA. No-confidence motion will be brought against the Speaker and he will have to leave the chair and the Deputy Speaker will preside over it..." Launching a veiled attack on RJD, BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said, "Under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, the JDU-NDA government will prove its majority on the floor. Our numbers are going to increase. Nothing will happen no matter what the opposition does. Jungle Raj will not return to Bihar." Ahead of the Bihar floor test, RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari claimed that all the MLAs have resolved to save Bihar. "Satya pareshan ho sakta hai lekin parajit nahi...In a few hours, everything will be known...Democracy will triumph. All the MLAs have made a resolution to save Bihar and its future and for that, the current government needs to be removed from power," the RJD leader said. RJD MLA Bhai Virendra said, "Yes, we have (majority mark). I have all the numbers...We will be ahead in the floor test..." The trust vote follows after Nitish took the oath as the chief minister of Bihar for the record ninth time after ditching its alliance with the RJD and forming a government with the BJP. Meanwhile, a heavy security cordon was thrown around the Bihar Vidhan Sabha, ahead of the floor test of the NDA government on Monday led by CM Nitish Kumar. Rajeev Mishra, SSP Patna said, "Security arrangements have been made in view of the assembly session today. Today is the first day of the session. Whatever happens inside the House, we have nothing to do with it, they have their personnel who make the arrangements for the security inside the House." Earlier in January, Nitish, who had reportedly gone into a sulk after not being named the convenor of INDIA, the Opposition bloc that took shape through his efforts, dumped the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) in Bihar and the national coalition to form a new government with the support of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Putting to rest frenzied speculations around his future and that of the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Nitish resigned as chief minister on January 28, his second volte face in less than 18 months. The JD(U) has 45 MLAs in the House of 243 while its partners, the BJP and the Hindustani Awam Morcha-Secular (HAM-S), have 79 and 4 sitting legislators respectively. With the support of another Independent MLA, the NDA has 128 MLAs in the House against 115 of the Mahagathbandhan. To go past the majority mark in the House, the ruling alliance needs 122 votes.
—ANI

Bihar Assembly braces for a crucial floor test. JDU-NDA alliance confident, RJD asserts majority. Security beefed up. Latest updates on political developments.

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