By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Discussions about factionalism have resurfaced in Bihar’s ruling party, Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], as former IPS officer Manish Verma’s political activities face abrupt suspension. Verma, who joined JD(U) after taking voluntary retirement from the police service, was appointed national general secretary by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. His swift rise sparked speculation about him being groomed as Nitish’s political successor.
Verma had embarked on a statewide tour starting 27 September, organising workers’ gatherings in various districts. His programme was planned to conclude in Nalanda on 20 November. However, JD(U) State President Umesh Kushwaha, acting on instructions from National Executive President Sanjay Jha, issued a directive to halt the programme. Political analysts suggest this decision reflects internal resistance, with factions within the party wary of anyone being positioned as an alternative to Nitish Kumar.
Factionalism in JD(U)
Political expert Priya Ranjan Bharti views the move as a strategic political manoeuvre. “JD(U) has multiple factions, each with its own influence. Nitish Kumar’s elevation of Manish Verma triggered speculation, but halting his programme clearly indicates resistance within the party. Those vying to be Nitish’s successor likely oppose any leader emerging as a parallel figure,” Bharti explained.
Manish Verma, who hails from Nalanda and shares Nitish Kumar’s Kurmi caste background, is considered close to the Chief Minister. His prominent activities as national general secretary fuelled talk of him being a potential successor.
JD(U) Denies Factionalism
Despite widespread speculation, JD(U) leaders deny any internal rift. Sanjay Gandhi, an MLC close to Nitish Kumar, clarified, “Manish Verma’s programme has not been stopped. A party programme is already ongoing, and Verma is part of the team. The Chief Minister’s Mahila Samvad programme and the NDA’s upcoming campaign are priorities, necessitating this adjustment. There is no factionalism in JD(U).”
Rival Perspectives
RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmed interprets the situation differently, suggesting it reflects internal power struggles within JD(U). “When a state president issues a directive to postpone a national general secretary’s programme, it clearly indicates unrest. This is part of a broader attempt to challenge Nitish Kumar’s leadership,” he claimed, adding that the BJP might be fuelling the discord.
History of Successor Speculations
This is not the first instance of speculation about Nitish Kumar’s successor. Similar discussions arose when Prashant Kishor was appointed national vice-president of JD(U), though he was later sidelined. Upendra Kushwaha and RCP Singh, both viewed as potential successors at different times, also faced similar fates.
Manish Verma’s case bears striking similarities to RCP Singh’s trajectory. Like Verma, Singh, a former IPS officer, joined JD(U) after taking VRS and briefly rose to prominence before being marginalised. The halting of Verma’s programme has reignited debates about succession and factionalism within JD(U).
What Lies Ahead for Manish Verma?
As Manish Verma’s political future hangs in the balance, the ongoing developments highlight the complexities of leadership dynamics within JD(U). Whether Verma will overcome these obstacles or meet the same fate as his predecessors remains to be seen.