By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Following Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s ambiguous statement on a television channel regarding the Chief Ministerial candidate of the NDA in Bihar, the ruling Janata Dal (United) has released a striking poster. The poster asserts that Nitish Kumar will remain the “emperor” of Bihar politics, not just until 2025 but through to 2030. JD(U) has firmly conveyed that no alliance partner should harbour any confusion, as the people of Bihar will accept no one other than Nitish Kumar as their leader.
The newly released poster, unveiled on the first day of the new year, features Nitish Kumar walking towards the Bihar Assembly. The JD(U) symbol, an “arrow,” is displayed on one side, while the word “NITISH” is prominently written in English on the other. Between these elements, the years 2025 to 2030 are highlighted, signifying that Nitish Kumar is projected to retain his majority leadership in the Assembly through the next two terms.
Neeraj Kumar, JD(U)’s Chief Spokesperson, stated, “New Year 2025 marks Nitish Kumar’s continuation as Chief Minister, and his leadership from 2025 to 2030 is a natural progression. The people’s unwavering trust in his development-oriented agenda, inclusive growth, and social reforms remains strong.”
Through this poster, JD(U) has sent a clear message to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): there should be no ambiguity regarding the Chief Minister’s post. JD(U) has reiterated that neither the party nor the people of Bihar will accept any other candidate for the position.
This development comes amidst BJP leaders’ recent statements suggesting their intent to stake a claim for the Chief Minister’s post after the next elections. Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha had earlier remarked that “Atal Bihari Vajpayee will receive a true tribute only when the BJP forms its own government in Bihar.” However, after his comments sparked controversy, he clarified that Nitish Kumar, too, was an admirer of Vajpayee.
Amit Shah’s recent statement during a TV interview further fuelled speculations. When asked about the NDA’s Chief Ministerial candidate, Shah remarked that the Parliamentary Board would decide after the elections. This has led to discussions about whether the BJP, if it secures a majority, might install its own Chief Minister in Bihar, similar to the Maharashtra model.
JD(U), however, remains resolute, consistently emphasising that Nitish Kumar will lead the state. The latest poster reinforces this stance, aiming to dispel any doubts about the party’s position on the matter.