By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] National Working President and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Jha has stirred debate by demanding a Nobel Prize for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Speaking at a JD(U) workers’ conference in Samastipur, Jha lauded Kumar’s contributions to women’s empowerment and development in Bihar over the past two decades.
“Chief Minister Nitish Kumar deserves the Nobel Prize for women’s empowerment—perhaps an even greater recognition. In the last 20 years, Bihar has seen unprecedented advancements in this field under his leadership,” Jha remarked. He highlighted initiatives such as the decision to provide 50% reservation for women in panchayats and municipal bodies, calling it a transformative step.
Jha also credited Nitish Kumar with revolutionary changes in education, health, and social justice, noting that under his leadership, Bihar has made remarkable progress. He reflected on the societal shift in Samastipur, stating, “Two decades ago, the sight of a girl riding a bicycle in Samastipur was unthinkable. Today, that vision is a reality.”
This is not the first time JD(U) leaders have called for the Nobel Prize for Kumar. JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar previously suggested Kumar deserved the honour for his efforts in combating climate change, while other party leaders, including Ministers Madan Sahni, Maheshwar Hazari, and Sheela Mandal, have echoed similar sentiments.
The opposition, however, criticised Jha’s remarks. RJD chief spokesperson Shakti Yadav dismissed the demand, accusing JD(U) leaders of making exaggerated statements to curry favour with Nitish Kumar.
The JD(U) is currently conducting a large-scale campaign ahead of the 2025 elections, with senior party leaders divided into seven teams holding worker conferences across Bihar. These events aim to mobilise party members from the grassroots level.
