The floor test will take place on February 12 in the Bihar Assembly. Ahead of the trust vote, Nitish Kumar's party JD(U) has issued a three-line whip to all of its MLAs to be present and vote for the alliance. CM Nitish led NDA bloc is expected to prove majority in the floor test tomorrow. Watch to know more!

India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar to face floor test tomorrow, JD(U) issues whip to MLAs

A few weeks after returning to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) camp, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to face the floor test in the state Assembly today (Monday). This is the final hurdle for the renewed Nitish Kumar-BJP alliance government in the state. Ahead of the trust vote, Nitish Kumar's party JD(U) has issued a three-line whip to all of its MLAs to be present and vote for the alliance. CM Nitish led NDA bloc is expected to prove majority in the floor test tomorrow. Watch to know more!

India: Bihar Floor Test | How do the numbers stack up for BJP-JDU?

Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal United (JD(U)) &nbsp;expressed confidence over its party supremo winning the trust vote during the significant floor test which is due to be held on Monday (Feb&nbsp;12).

This comes two weeks after Kumar ditched JDU's alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and formed a new government with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The JD(U) chief, on Jan 28, took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar for the record ninth time, cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

JD(U) national secretary Rajiv Ranjan Prasad said, "Under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar, we will get the majority and the government will complete its tenure."

<h2>Security heightened outside Tejashwi Yadav's Patna residence ahead of floor test</h2>

Security was heightened outside the residence of Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, on Sunday (Feb 11).

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) claimed that the police personnel "wanted to enter (Tejashwi's) residence on any pretext and orchestrate untoward incidents against party MLAs".

"Nitish Kumar has sent thousands of police and surrounded Tejashwi ji's residence from all sides. They want to enter the residence on any pretext and do untoward incidents with the MLAs," read a post on the official X handle of RJD.

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नीतीश कुमार ने सरकार जाने के डर से हजारों की संख्या में पुलिस भेज तेजस्वी जी के आवास को चारों तरफ़ से घेर लिया है। ये किसी भी तरह से किसी भी बहाने आवास के अंदर घुस कर विधायकों के साथ अप्रिय घटना करना चाहते है। बिहार की जनता नीतीश कुमार और पुलिस के कुकर्म देख रही है। 
 
याद रहे हम…
— Rashtriya Janata Dal (@RJDforIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RJDforIndia/status/1756766507629985974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The party stated that it will not 'bow down' in the ongoing 'ideological struggle'.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-haryana-government-converts-two-stadiums-into-makeshift-prisons-ahead-of-farmers-march-689356">Haryana govt converts stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of farmers' march</a>

"The people of Bihar are watching the misdeeds of Nitish Kumar and the police. Remember, we are not among those who fear and bow down. This is a struggle of ideology and we will fight it and win because the justice-loving people of Bihar will oppose this police repression. Jai Bihar! Jai Hind," the party added.

On the police deployment outside Tejashwi's residence, RJD spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav told news agency ANI,&nbsp;"This has never happened (earlier) in any state in independent India. It's a legislative meeting (underway at Tejashwi's residence). Agar BJP kare (meeting) to 'raasleela' agar RJD kare toh 'character dheela (if BJP holds a similar meeting it is deemed fine, but when the RJD goes into a huddle, they are frowned upon)."

<h2>'Police doing its job', says BJP&nbsp;</h2>

Reacting to RJD's claims, BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said the police were merely doing their job.

"If you (Tejashwi Yadav) kidnap the MLAs and any MLA's relative file a complaint, the police will surely come. If you (Tejashwi Yadav) keep any MLA tied up in your house, the police will surely take action. They (police) are only doing their job," Hussain said.

He further added that no MLA from his party or JD(U) was missing, stating that the Opposition was only spreading rumours.

"RJD and Congress are only spreading confusion. The JD(U) and the BJP will together prove majority on the Assembly floor. No one (MLAs) is out of reach and everyone is in touch with us. They are spreading canards. All NDA MLAs are together. They should stop worrying about our MLAs and focus on their missing legislators," the BJP leader added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal United (JD(U)) expressed confidence over its party supremo winning the trust vote during the significant floor test which is due to be held on Monday (Feb 12).

Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal United (JD(U)) expressed confidence over its party supremo winning the trust vote during the significant floor test which is due to be held on Monday (Feb 12). This comes two weeks after Kumar ditched JDU's alliance with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and formed a new government with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The JD(U) chief, on Jan 28, took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar for the record ninth time, cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. JD(U) national secretary Rajiv Ranjan Prasad said, "Under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar, we will get the majority and the government will complete its tenure." Security heightened outside Tejashwi Yadav's Patna residence ahead of floor test Security was heightened outside the residence of Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, on Sunday (Feb 11). The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) claimed that the police personnel "wanted to enter (Tejashwi's) residence on any pretext and orchestrate untoward incidents against party MLAs". "Nitish Kumar has sent thousands of police and surrounded Tejashwi ji's residence from all sides. They want to enter the residence on any pretext and do untoward incidents with the MLAs," read a post on the official X handle of RJD. नीतीश कुमार ने सरकार जाने के डर से हजारों की संख्या में पुलिस भेज तेजस्वी जी के आवास को चारों तरफ़ से घेर लिया है। ये किसी भी तरह से किसी भी बहाने आवास के अंदर घुस कर विधायकों के साथ अप्रिय घटना करना चाहते है। बिहार की जनता नीतीश कुमार और पुलिस के कुकर्म देख रही है। याद रहे हम… — Rashtriya Janata Dal (@RJDforIndia) February 11, 2024 × The party stated that it will not 'bow down' in the ongoing 'ideological struggle'. Also read: Haryana govt converts stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of farmers' march "The people of Bihar are watching the misdeeds of Nitish Kumar and the police. Remember, we are not among those who fear and bow down. This is a struggle of ideology and we will fight it and win because the justice-loving people of Bihar will oppose this police repression. Jai Bihar! Jai Hind," the party added. On the police deployment outside Tejashwi's residence, RJD spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav told news agency ANI, "This has never happened (earlier) in any state in independent India. It's a legislative meeting (underway at Tejashwi's residence). Agar BJP kare (meeting) to 'raasleela' agar RJD kare toh 'character dheela (if BJP holds a similar meeting it is deemed fine, but when the RJD goes into a huddle, they are frowned upon)." 'Police doing its job', says BJP Reacting to RJD's claims, BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said the police were merely doing their job. "If you (Tejashwi Yadav) kidnap the MLAs and any MLA's relative file a complaint, the police will surely come. If you (Tejashwi Yadav) keep any MLA tied up in your house, the police will surely take action. They (police) are only doing their job," Hussain said. He further added that no MLA from his party or JD(U) was missing, stating that the Opposition was only spreading rumours. "RJD and Congress are only spreading confusion. The JD(U) and the BJP will together prove majority on the Assembly floor. No one (MLAs) is out of reach and everyone is in touch with us. They are spreading canards. All NDA MLAs are together. They should stop worrying about our MLAs and focus on their missing legislators," the BJP leader added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar's JD(U) expresses confidence in winning trust vote ahead of crucial floor test

A little over a fortnight after taking oath as the chief minister&nbsp;of the eastern state of Bihar for a record ninth time, this time again in alliance with the BJP, Janata Dal United chief Nitish Kumar&nbsp;will be seeking a trust vote in the state assembly on Monday (Feb 12). Ahead of the trust vote, JDU has issued a three-line whip to all of its MLAs to be present and vote for the alliance.&nbsp;

JDU's chief whip Shravan Kumar said that those defying the whip "will lose their membership" even as he maintained that it was a "routine exercise that takes place ahead of every assembly session".

Apart from JDU, former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) chief, Jitan Ram Manjhi has also issued a whip to the four MLAs of his party, instructing them to vote in favour of the NDA.&nbsp;

While the ruling party covers its bases, legislators of the opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' (Mega-alliance) started arriving at&nbsp;Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav's residence in Patna on Saturday (Feb 10).&nbsp;

After the meeting, some of the legislators were prevented from returning home. According to experts, RJD is wary of some MLAs ditching the party and joining NDA. Keeping them locked till the voting is a way to ensure the opposition is not further weakened.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bihars-nitish-kumar-teams-up-with-bjp-jdu-exit-threatens-india-alliance-684623" target="_blank">Watch | India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar teams up with BJP | JDU exit threatens 'I.N.D.I.A' alliance</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bihars-nitish-kumar-teams-up-with-bjp-jdu-exit-threatens-india-alliance-684623/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Nitish's return and INDIA bloc's doom&nbsp;</h2>

Nitish returning to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fold is not a new phenomenon and certainly not the first time the JP movement leader has taken a U-turn on his political allegiances.&nbsp;

In 2013, when Narendra Modi was announced as the BJP's PM candidate, an angry Kumar left the alliance, only to return in 2017 before breaking up again in 2022. His return this time around, however, has far-reaching consequences.&nbsp;

After Nitish switched allegiances, the fate of the INDIA bloc has been sealed. The opposition alliance was the last-ditch effort by the legacy parties to stop the BJP juggernaut.&nbsp;Bihar with&nbsp;40 Lok Sabha seats was the only state in the Hindi heartland where the INDIA bloc had its party in power.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-assembly-in-numbers-nda-now-backed-by-127-mlas-as-mahagathbandhan-collapses-684576" target="_blank">Also read | Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as ‘Mahagathbandhan’ collapses</a>&nbsp;

However, with Nitish gone, there is a great probability that the BJP will sweep the region and further add to its riches.&nbsp;The INDIA alliance, cobbled together after much trouble in a bid to keep the BJP-led NDA at bay, is falling flat at the first hurdle of 'seat sharing', effectively depicting&nbsp;that it was set up for failure from the beginning.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A little over a fortnight after taking oath as the chief minister of the eastern state of Bihar for a record ninth time, this time again in alliance with the BJP, Janata Dal United chief Nitish Kumar will be seeking a trust vote in the state assembly on Monday (Feb 12).

A little over a fortnight after taking oath as the chief minister of the eastern state of Bihar for a record ninth time, this time again in alliance with the BJP, Janata Dal United chief Nitish Kumar will be seeking a trust vote in the state assembly on Monday (Feb 12). Ahead of the trust vote, JDU has issued a three-line whip to all of its MLAs to be present and vote for the alliance. JDU's chief whip Shravan Kumar said that those defying the whip "will lose their membership" even as he maintained that it was a "routine exercise that takes place ahead of every assembly session". Apart from JDU, former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) chief, Jitan Ram Manjhi has also issued a whip to the four MLAs of his party, instructing them to vote in favour of the NDA. While the ruling party covers its bases, legislators of the opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' (Mega-alliance) started arriving at Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav's residence in Patna on Saturday (Feb 10). After the meeting, some of the legislators were prevented from returning home. According to experts, RJD is wary of some MLAs ditching the party and joining NDA. Keeping them locked till the voting is a way to ensure the opposition is not further weakened. Watch | India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar teams up with BJP | JDU exit threatens 'I.N.D.I.A' alliance Nitish's return and INDIA bloc's doom Nitish returning to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fold is not a new phenomenon and certainly not the first time the JP movement leader has taken a U-turn on his political allegiances. In 2013, when Narendra Modi was announced as the BJP's PM candidate, an angry Kumar left the alliance, only to return in 2017 before breaking up again in 2022. His return this time around, however, has far-reaching consequences. After Nitish switched allegiances, the fate of the INDIA bloc has been sealed. The opposition alliance was the last-ditch effort by the legacy parties to stop the BJP juggernaut. Bihar with 40 Lok Sabha seats was the only state in the Hindi heartland where the INDIA bloc had its party in power. Also read | Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as ‘Mahagathbandhan’ collapses However, with Nitish gone, there is a great probability that the BJP will sweep the region and further add to its riches. The INDIA alliance, cobbled together after much trouble in a bid to keep the BJP-led NDA at bay, is falling flat at the first hurdle of 'seat sharing', effectively depicting that it was set up for failure from the beginning. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ahead of Bihar floor test, JD (U) issues whip to MLAs, RJD locks up its legislators

India: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to face floor test tomorrow

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party&nbsp;Janata Dal (United)&nbsp;on Friday (Jan 26), shunned&nbsp;rumours of&nbsp;return to BJP-led NDA stating&nbsp;that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition".&nbsp;

However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats.

"All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters.

He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna".

He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition".

Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trouble-in-india-paradise-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-may-return-to-bjp-led-nda-fold-sources-683841">Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports</a>

<h2>Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours</h2>

On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda".

"Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said.

During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner -&nbsp;chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar.

The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". 
Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies".

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal (United) on Friday (Jan 26), shunned rumours of return to BJP-led NDA stating that the party was "firmly with the I.N.D.I.A coalition". However, the state JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kushwaha in his statement said that the party wanted the Congress to introspect regarding alliance partners and the sharing of seats. "All is well in Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan and the media speculations are driven by some agenda," Kushwaha told reporters. He also said, "I met the CM yesterday as well as today. It is a routine affair. There is no truth in the rumours doing the rounds. We also reject the rumours that party MLAs have been asked to rush to Patna". He then said that Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav were " firmly with INDIA coalition". Kushwaha, however, urged the Congress to do some introspection and said, "We want the Congress, which is our alliance partner, to do some introspection with regard to its stance towards other constituents and sharing of seats. Our leader Nitish Kumar has for long been stressing on the need for early finalisation of seat-sharing deal so that we could concentrate on Lok Sabha polls". Also read: Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports Kushwaha calls reports of Kumar going back to NDA rumours On being asked about the party's return to the NDA, the JD(U) leader said, "These are rumours spread by those with some agenda". "Nitish Kumar is our leader in Bihar. I have no idea from where rumours of his going back to NDA have emanated," he further said. During a press briefing, Kushwaha was also asked about Rohini Acharya's social media posts, who is the daughter of RJD - coalition partner - chief Lalu Prasad, where she supposedly took a jibe at Kumar. The JD(U) leader replied, "We take no notice of that because Rohini Acharya is not an RJD office-bearer". Meanwhile, when asked about the delay in seat-sharing in the opposition bloc INDIA, state Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh asked, "why nobody asks about the BJP-led NDA? They, too are yet to sort out sharing of seats with allies". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar's JD (U) says 'firmly with INDIA bloc, want Congress to do introspection'

Janata Dal-United&nbsp;leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers.

After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD.&nbsp;

Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support.

<h2>‘We will stay together,’&nbsp;says Kumar in his first response after taking oath</h2>

The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now."

"I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday.

On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-politics-who-are-samrat-choudhary-and-vijay-sinha-the-two-deputy-chief-ministers-in-new-government-684594">Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government</a>

"We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else,"&nbsp;he added.

<h2>Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav</h2>

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months."

He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.

Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."

"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.

(With inputs from agencies)

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Janata Dal-United leader Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of the east Indian state of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) for the record ninth time at Raj Bhawan in Patna after cutting ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance. Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from Bharatiya Janata Part (BJP), took the oath as deputy chief ministers. After days of speculation, Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months of the JD(U) leader ditching the BJP and going with RJD. Hours later, he took the oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. ‘We will stay together,’ says Kumar in his first response after taking oath The Bihar chief minister, after taking the oath, affirmed, "We are going to stay together now." "I was with them (NDA) earlier too. We went on different paths, but now we are together and will remain so. Today, eight people have taken oath as ministers, the rest will take oath soon. Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers," Nitish Kumar told reporters on Sunday. On being asked about RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's statement where he claimed that JDU will be finished in 2024, Kumar said that his party would work for the development and progress of the state. Also read: Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government "We work for the development and progress of Bihar. We will keep doing the same, nothing else. Tejashwi was not doing anything. Now I came back to where I was (NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere else," he added. Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months." He also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar politics: Nitish Kumar takes oath as chief minister, with 2 deputy CMs from BJP

It was a busy Sunday in the newsrooms all over the world. In India's Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar changed sides again to re-enter the National Democratic Alliance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, cementing his reputation as an eternal turncoat of Indian politics. In Paris, Da Vinci's Mona Lisa came short of tasting soup thrown by activists amid farmer protests in France. Dramatic visuals also emerged from the South Asian archipelago of Maldives where lawmakers fought in a scuffle to prevent cabinet designations of certain ministers in President Muizzu's government.&nbsp;

Click here to read more:

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<img alt="Nitish back in NDA fold" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbeae485-70c8-4fdc-84a4-ca5de17c0c11" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India_.png" />

Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar quit the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) and submitted his resignation as chief minister to Governor Rajendra Arlekar at the Raj Bhavan.

Hours later, Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar chief minister, this time along with two deputy chief ministers from the BJP, its new alliance partner in the state.&nbsp;

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Iran on Sunday (Jan 28)&nbsp;announced the successful launch of three satellites into space by utilising a rocket with a history of multiple failures.

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Dramatic visuals emerged from Maldives parliament on Sunday (Jan 28) after the ruling alliance's lawmakers disrupted parliamentary proceedings ahead of a key vote crucial for the functioning of President Muizzu's government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-one-killed-in-armed-attack-on-italian-church-in-istanbul-684511">Turkey: One killed in armed attack on Italian church in Istanbul</a>

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Armed assailants launched an attack on an Italian church in Istanbul claiming the life of one person, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

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In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28).

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The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced Sunday their immediate withdrawal from the West African bloc ECOWAS.

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A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to be the prime minister in the first place, a report in The Times newspaper indicated.&nbsp;

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Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

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It was a chaotic Sunday (Jan 28) in prospect for Test cricket as England and West Indies secured famous victories on either side of the globe to shake the World Test Championship (WTC) table upside-down. While India suffered a historic defeat despite leading by 190 runs in the first innings, West Indies had their man of the moment Shamar Joseph to thank after he helped West Indies beat Australia for the first time since 1997 in their own backyard.

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Mumbai showered love on American singer Nick Jonas, chanting "jiju" (brother-in-law) during his debut performance in India with the Jonas Brothers at the Lollapalooza festival. Priyanka Chopra, Nick's wife, took to Instagram to share her gratitude.

It was a busy Sunday in the newsrooms all over the world. In India's Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar changed sides again to re-enter the National Democratic Alliance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, cementing his reputation as an eternal turncoat of Indian politics.

It was a busy Sunday in the newsrooms all over the world. In India's Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar changed sides again to re-enter the National Democratic Alliance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, cementing his reputation as an eternal turncoat of Indian politics. In Paris, Da Vinci's Mona Lisa came short of tasting soup thrown by activists amid farmer protests in France. Dramatic visuals also emerged from the South Asian archipelago of Maldives where lawmakers fought in a scuffle to prevent cabinet designations of certain ministers in President Muizzu's government. Click here to read more: Bihar's tryst with Nitish Kumar resumes alongside 2 deputy CMs from BJP Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar quit the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) and submitted his resignation as chief minister to Governor Rajendra Arlekar at the Raj Bhavan. Hours later, Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar chief minister, this time along with two deputy chief ministers from the BJP, its new alliance partner in the state. Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia Iran on Sunday (Jan 28) announced the successful launch of three satellites into space by utilising a rocket with a history of multiple failures. Maldives: Lawmakers indulge in scuffle ahead of key parliamentary vote Dramatic visuals emerged from Maldives parliament on Sunday (Jan 28) after the ruling alliance's lawmakers disrupted parliamentary proceedings ahead of a key vote crucial for the functioning of President Muizzu's government. Turkey: One killed in armed attack on Italian church in Istanbul Armed assailants launched an attack on an Italian church in Istanbul claiming the life of one person, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting at Louvre Museum in Paris In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28). Coup hit Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger quit ECOWAS regional block The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger announced Sunday their immediate withdrawal from the West African bloc ECOWAS. Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report A fourth prime ministerial change of guard in London's Downing Street is being plotted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party colleagues, whom the Indian-origin politician has outfoxed in recent years to be the prime minister in the first place, a report in The Times newspaper indicated. Australian Open: Jannik Sinner makes thrilling comeback, stuns Medvedev to win maiden Grand Slam title Italian Jannik Sinner produced a monumental comeback in the Australian Open final on Sunday (Jan 28) after he beat Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Rod Laver Arena. Sinner, playing against the former US Open champion came back from two sets down to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title. The defeat for Medvedev was his third at the Australian Open having also lost in the 2021 and 2022 final to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal respectively. The win against Medvedev also means that only for the second time in 19 years there has been a winner other than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. WTC Standings: India slip to fifth spot after catastrophic defeat to England; Aussies stay top despite WI loss It was a chaotic Sunday (Jan 28) in prospect for Test cricket as England and West Indies secured famous victories on either side of the globe to shake the World Test Championship (WTC) table upside-down. While India suffered a historic defeat despite leading by 190 runs in the first innings, West Indies had their man of the moment Shamar Joseph to thank after he helped West Indies beat Australia for the first time since 1997 in their own backyard. Priyanka Chopra gets emotional as crowd chants ‘jiju’ during Nick Jonas’ Lollapalooza performance Mumbai showered love on American singer Nick Jonas, chanting "jiju" (brother-in-law) during his debut performance in India with the Jonas Brothers at the Lollapalooza festival. Priyanka Chopra, Nick's wife, took to Instagram to share her gratitude.

Top 10 world news: Nitish back with NDA in Bihar; activists splash soup on Mona Lisa painting, and more

In the backdrop of the huge setback for the I.N.D.I.A. Alliance with Nitish Kumar jumping ship, India's opposition and Indian national congress leader Rahul Gandhi resumed his unity and justice march after a two-day break and there are visible signals that it is fraught with troubles. Watch to know more!

India: Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi Unity and Justice march to enter Bihar on January 29

Why Nitish Kumar's exit is a big blow for I.N.D.I.A. bloc & a huge gain for the BJP government. Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar quit the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) and submitted his resignation as chief minister to Governor Rajendra Arlekar at the Raj Bhavan.

India: JDU chief Nitish Kumar teams up with BJP | Opposition denies move could hurt I.N.D.I.A Bloc

Nitish Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar today. The resignation comes after days of speculation over the leader eyeing another political switch to return to an alliance with the BJP.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar resigns, will he form a new alliance with BJP?

India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar teams up with BJP | JDU exit threatens 'I.N.D.I.A' alliance

Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of Bihar for the ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), along with two deputy chief ministers from Indian PM Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Bihar BJP chief Samrat Choudhary and the former leader of the opposition in Bihar assembly Vijay Sinha took oath as deputy CMs along with CM Nitish Kumar.

PM Modi took to X to congratulate the trio. "The NDA government formed in Bihar will leave no stone unturned for the development of the state and to fulfil the aspirations of its people," he wrote. Here is everything you need to know about Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha.

<h2>Who is Samrat Choudhary?</h2>

By making OBC leader Samrat Choudhary as its deputy CM in Bihar, the BJP wants to change its reputation as a “pro-upper caste” party. Samrat belongs to an influential political family in Bihar and his father started off as a politician with the Congress party. Later, Samrat’s father kept switching his allegiances with Nitish Kumar’s JDU party and his opponent Lalu Yadav’s RJD party.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw36GkGKTcNONcVuqoW74QFo" data-ved="2ahUKEwjT1NSCr4CEAxX0e2wGHZ01CZ8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-assembly-in-numbers-nda-now-backed-by-127-mlas-as-mahagathbandhan-collapses-684576" jsname="YKoRaf">Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as 'Mahagathbandhan' collapses</a>

After&nbsp;brief stints as minister and leader in both JDU and RJD, Samrat Choudhary, 54, joined BJP in 2017. BJP recognised his potential both as a fiery speaker and as a leader belonging to the prominent Koeri caste. He was made BJP’s state chief in March last year and now has been awarded with the deputy CM's post. With this, the BJP attempts to attract a large number of Luv (Kurmi) and Kush (Kushwaha) votes.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar sworn-in as Bihar CM for 9th time amid series of alliance switches

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Samrat Choudhary is known as a fierce critic of CM Nitish Kumar and now faces the challenge of burying the hatchet with the foe-turned-ally.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Vijay Sinha?</h2>

Vijay Sinha, 55, earlier served as the Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly from November 25, 2020, to August 24, 2022.

Also read:&nbsp;

He is a BJP leader and a member of Bihar Legislative Assembly since 2010 from Lakhisarai constituency. Sinha resigned as the speaker following a no-confidence motion moved by the then-ruling Mahagathbandhan alliance.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of Bihar for the ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), along with two deputy chief ministers from Indian PM Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister of Bihar for the ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), along with two deputy chief ministers from Indian PM Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Bihar BJP chief Samrat Choudhary and the former leader of the opposition in Bihar assembly Vijay Sinha took oath as deputy CMs along with CM Nitish Kumar. PM Modi took to X to congratulate the trio. "The NDA government formed in Bihar will leave no stone unturned for the development of the state and to fulfil the aspirations of its people," he wrote. Here is everything you need to know about Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha. Who is Samrat Choudhary? By making OBC leader Samrat Choudhary as its deputy CM in Bihar, the BJP wants to change its reputation as a “pro-upper caste” party. Samrat belongs to an influential political family in Bihar and his father started off as a politician with the Congress party. Later, Samrat’s father kept switching his allegiances with Nitish Kumar’s JDU party and his opponent Lalu Yadav’s RJD party. Also read: Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as 'Mahagathbandhan' collapses After brief stints as minister and leader in both JDU and RJD, Samrat Choudhary, 54, joined BJP in 2017. BJP recognised his potential both as a fiery speaker and as a leader belonging to the prominent Koeri caste. He was made BJP’s state chief in March last year and now has been awarded with the deputy CM's post. With this, the BJP attempts to attract a large number of Luv (Kurmi) and Kush (Kushwaha) votes. Watch: India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar sworn-in as Bihar CM for 9th time amid series of alliance switches × Samrat Choudhary is known as a fierce critic of CM Nitish Kumar and now faces the challenge of burying the hatchet with the foe-turned-ally. Who is Vijay Sinha? Vijay Sinha, 55, earlier served as the Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly from November 25, 2020, to August 24, 2022. Also read: He is a BJP leader and a member of Bihar Legislative Assembly since 2010 from Lakhisarai constituency. Sinha resigned as the speaker following a no-confidence motion moved by the then-ruling Mahagathbandhan alliance. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar politics: Who are Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha? The two deputy chief ministers in new government

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Bihar, Nitish Kumar stepped down from the top post and severed ties with the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) on Sunday (Jan 28). Subsequently, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national general secretary Vinod Tawde said a BJP-NDA government would be formed in the state in alliance with the Janata Dal (United).&nbsp;

<h2>BJP’s Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha to be deputy CMs?</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, Kumar held a meeting of JD(U) leaders at his official residence in state capital Patna and announced that he had asked the governor to dissolve the government in the state.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Bihar: Opposition I.N.D.I.A alliance falls apart as Nitish Kumar switches over

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Kumar also said he would form government with the BJP at 5:00 pm (local time). Meanwhile, during the legislative party meeting, JD-U MLAs unanimously passed the proposal to form the&nbsp;government in alliance with BJP, and other NDA allies.&nbsp;

BJP’s Samrat Chaudhary has been elected as the leader of the legislative party, while&nbsp;Vijay Sinha, who was&nbsp;Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly,&nbsp;has been elected as the deputy leader.&nbsp;

“Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha have been elected as leader and deputy leader of the legislative party, respectively. Most certainly, they will be our deputy CMs,” BJP leader and former Bihar Deputy CM, Tarkishore Prasad told reporters, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-political-crisis-nitish-to-step-down-as-cm-form-new-govt-with-bjp-later-today-report-684422">JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar quits Grand Alliance in Bihar, will form new state govt with BJP</a>

Later, Bihar BJP spokesperson Sumit Shashank said, “Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha to be the Deputy Chief Ministers of Bihar.”&nbsp;

This comes as several media reports citing officials said Choudhary and Sinha will be named as deputy CMs while Kumar will again be the chief minister.&nbsp;

<h2>Setback for opposition’s INDIA alliance</h2>

Kumar’s resignation is being seen as a major setback for the opposition&nbsp;INDIA alliance that wanted to put up a strong fight against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming general elections.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trouble-in-india-paradise-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-may-return-to-bjp-led-nda-fold-sources-683841">Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports</a>

The resignation also comes after several media reports said Kumar was miffed with the opposition INDIA bloc, especially the Congress Party for being indecisive in the seat-sharing arrangement in other states.&nbsp;

Nitish's decision to dump the Grand Alliance came days after he was named the Janata Dal (United) national president after MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh quit the post, ending days of speculation amid reports of a rift and the latter's alleged growing inclination towards RJD.

Bihar’s political shake-up also comes days after Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC), a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, declared its intent to go solo in the Indian state of West Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.&nbsp;

Similarly, the Aam Aadmi Party has announced that it plans to contest Punjab and Haryana elections alone, without any seat sharing with other opposition parties.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Bihar, Nitish Kumar stepped down from the top post and severed ties with the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) on Sunday (Jan 28).

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Bihar, Nitish Kumar stepped down from the top post and severed ties with the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) on Sunday (Jan 28). Subsequently, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national general secretary Vinod Tawde said a BJP-NDA government would be formed in the state in alliance with the Janata Dal (United). BJP’s Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha to be deputy CMs? Earlier on Sunday, Kumar held a meeting of JD(U) leaders at his official residence in state capital Patna and announced that he had asked the governor to dissolve the government in the state. WATCH | Bihar: Opposition I.N.D.I.A alliance falls apart as Nitish Kumar switches over Kumar also said he would form government with the BJP at 5:00 pm (local time). Meanwhile, during the legislative party meeting, JD-U MLAs unanimously passed the proposal to form the government in alliance with BJP, and other NDA allies. BJP’s Samrat Chaudhary has been elected as the leader of the legislative party, while Vijay Sinha, who was Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly, has been elected as the deputy leader. “Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha have been elected as leader and deputy leader of the legislative party, respectively. Most certainly, they will be our deputy CMs,” BJP leader and former Bihar Deputy CM, Tarkishore Prasad told reporters, as quoted by PTI. ALSO READ | JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar quits Grand Alliance in Bihar, will form new state govt with BJP Later, Bihar BJP spokesperson Sumit Shashank said, “Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha to be the Deputy Chief Ministers of Bihar.” This comes as several media reports citing officials said Choudhary and Sinha will be named as deputy CMs while Kumar will again be the chief minister. Setback for opposition’s INDIA alliance Kumar’s resignation is being seen as a major setback for the opposition INDIA alliance that wanted to put up a strong fight against the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming general elections. ALSO READ | Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports The resignation also comes after several media reports said Kumar was miffed with the opposition INDIA bloc, especially the Congress Party for being indecisive in the seat-sharing arrangement in other states. Nitish's decision to dump the Grand Alliance came days after he was named the Janata Dal (United) national president after MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh quit the post, ending days of speculation amid reports of a rift and the latter's alleged growing inclination towards RJD. Bihar’s political shake-up also comes days after Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC), a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, declared its intent to go solo in the Indian state of West Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections. Similarly, the Aam Aadmi Party has announced that it plans to contest Punjab and Haryana elections alone, without any seat sharing with other opposition parties. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar to form government in Bihar with BJP support after dumping Grand Alliance

In his&nbsp;first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing&nbsp;deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months..."

Yadav also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.

Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."

"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.

After days of speculation, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar resigned as the Chief Minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months. Hours later, Nitish took oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government&nbsp;with BJP's support.

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.

Also watch |&nbsp;Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP

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In the Bihar Assembly of 243, the RJD has 79 MLAs; followed by the BJP's 78; the JD(U)'s 45,&nbsp;the Congress'&nbsp;19, the CPI (M-L)'s 12, two each of the CPI(M) and CPI, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular)'s four seats, and the AIMIM's one, and an Independent legislator.

Nitish Kumar, after parting ways with the BJP in 2022, is credited to have united the opposition parties to jointly take on Prime Minister Modi and the BJP in the 2024 General Elections. The dynamics now stands sharply changed with Nitish back in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance's fold.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months..." Yadav also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. After days of speculation, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar resigned as the Chief Minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months. Hours later, Nitish took oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. Also watch | Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP × In the Bihar Assembly of 243, the RJD has 79 MLAs; followed by the BJP's 78; the JD(U)'s 45, the Congress' 19, the CPI (M-L)'s 12, two each of the CPI(M) and CPI, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular)'s four seats, and the AIMIM's one, and an Independent legislator. Nitish Kumar, after parting ways with the BJP in 2022, is credited to have united the opposition parties to jointly take on Prime Minister Modi and the BJP in the 2024 General Elections. The dynamics now stands sharply changed with Nitish back in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance's fold. (With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav

Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar quit the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28) and submitted his resignation as chief minister to Governor Rajendra Arlekar at the Raj Bhavan. Watch to know more!

India: Bihar's Nitish Kumar sworn-in as Bihar CM for 9th time amid series of alliance switches

Nitish Kumar resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Sunday. The resignation comes after days of speculation over the leader eyeing another political switch to return to an alliance with the BJP.

India | Nitish Kumar's party-switching politics

Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD & Congress to join BJP

After days of speculation, Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar has resigned as the Bihar chief minister after severing ties with the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ to break away from the ruling government as “not everything was alright".

Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP

Bihar: Opposition I.N.D.I.A alliance falls apart as Nitish Kumar switches over

Breaking News | Bihar CM Nitish Kumar resigns, calls for the dissolution of his government

Months ahead of the general elections in India, political turmoil intensified in the Indian state of Bihar on Saturday (Jan 27) amid media reports suggesting that state chief minister Nitish Kumar is about to leave the JD(U)-RJD-Congress Grand Alliance and will again join the BJP-led NDA alliance. 
 
As per a few media reports, the JD(U) chief, who has many times oscillated between political parties RJD and BJP, can also form a new government with BJP on Sunday (Jan 28) and take oath for his 9th term as the chief minister.

<h2 lang="en-US">RJD's Tejashwi Yadav says 'game yet to begin'</h2>

Meanwhile, JD(U)'s ally Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav told the party leaders in a meeting that Nitish Kumar is "respectable" but there were a lot of factors which were not under his "control." 
 
As per media reports, Yadav said, "CM Nitish Kumar was and is respectable. Many things are not under his (Nitish Kumar) control. RJD's allies in the 'Mahagathbandhan' always respected the Chief Minister....”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-lose-nitish-kumar-bihar-cm-likely-to-switch-side-to-bjp-very-soon-684199">'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports</a>

As per media reports, Tejashwi Yadav also hinted at other unexpected developments in the state. 
 
"The Chief Minister used to sit with me on the stage and ask, "What was there in Bihar before 2005?" I never reacted... Now, more people are with us. Whatever remained undone in two decades, we managed to get it done within a short time- be it jobs, caste census, increasing reservation, etc. 'Bihar mein abhi khel hona baki hai' (The game is yet to begin in Bihar),” said Yadav, as per media reports. 
 
In the 'Mahagathbandhan', which includes the opposition Congress and three Left parties, the RJD is the largest alliance partner and if Kumar's JD(U) pulls out, the alliance will fall short of eight members for a majority in the assembly.

<h2 lang="en-US">Congress tries to avert crisis</h2>

Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge said that all efforts are being made by his party to keep the INDIA bloc united. However, he added that he has no knowledge of what is in the mind of JD(U) leadership. 
 
"I don't have information on Janata Dal (United) leaving the alliance. I have written a letter to them. Tried to speak to them. But don't know what's on Nitish Kumar's mind," said Kharge, while speaking to the reporters. 
 
"Tomorrow I'll go to Delhi and take full information. Let's see what will happen. We don't have information that Nitish will resign. He hasn't told us about meeting Governor. I don't have information so can't tell you authentic. Let's see what happens," he said.

Watch:&nbsp;The saga of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's many U-turns

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The Congress president said, "We are trying our best to make everyone unite together. I've spoken to Mamata (Banerjee) and Nitish and (Sitaram) Yechury to be united. Told them we need to be united only then we can give a good fight. India alliance will work well and democracy should be saved, whoever wants this won't take a hasty decision is what I feel.”

<h2 lang="en-US">JD(U) leader KC Tyagi says Nitish 'misunderstood'</h2>

Meanwhile, senior JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said that the INDIA bloc has been facing issues in different states because of Congress and added that the Mahagathbandhan is all set to collapse. 
 
"The INDIA bloc is on the verge of collapse. The alliance of INDIA bloc parties is almost over in Punjab, West Bengal and Bihar," said Tyagi, as quoted by ANI. 
 
"The goal and intentions with which Kumar, the JD(U) president, succeeded in bringing non-Congress parties with the Congress have come unstuck," he added, asserting that the leader was "misunderstood". 
 
"Kumar never hankered after a position in the alliance but a section of the Congress leadership repeatedly insulted him," Tyagi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Months ahead of the general elections in India, political turmoil intensified in the Indian state of Bihar on Saturday (Jan 27) amid media reports suggesting that state chief minister Nitish Kumar is about to leave the JD(U)-RJD-Congress Grand Alliance and will again join the BJP-led NDA alliance.

Months ahead of the general elections in India, political turmoil intensified in the Indian state of Bihar on Saturday (Jan 27) amid media reports suggesting that state chief minister Nitish Kumar is about to leave the JD(U)-RJD-Congress Grand Alliance and will again join the BJP-led NDA alliance. As per a few media reports, the JD(U) chief, who has many times oscillated between political parties RJD and BJP, can also form a new government with BJP on Sunday (Jan 28) and take oath for his 9th term as the chief minister. RJD's Tejashwi Yadav says 'game yet to begin' Meanwhile, JD(U)'s ally Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav told the party leaders in a meeting that Nitish Kumar is "respectable" but there were a lot of factors which were not under his "control." As per media reports, Yadav said, "CM Nitish Kumar was and is respectable. Many things are not under his (Nitish Kumar) control. RJD's allies in the 'Mahagathbandhan' always respected the Chief Minister....” Also read: 'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports As per media reports, Tejashwi Yadav also hinted at other unexpected developments in the state. "The Chief Minister used to sit with me on the stage and ask, "What was there in Bihar before 2005?" I never reacted... Now, more people are with us. Whatever remained undone in two decades, we managed to get it done within a short time- be it jobs, caste census, increasing reservation, etc. 'Bihar mein abhi khel hona baki hai' (The game is yet to begin in Bihar),” said Yadav, as per media reports. In the 'Mahagathbandhan', which includes the opposition Congress and three Left parties, the RJD is the largest alliance partner and if Kumar's JD(U) pulls out, the alliance will fall short of eight members for a majority in the assembly. Congress tries to avert crisis Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge said that all efforts are being made by his party to keep the INDIA bloc united. However, he added that he has no knowledge of what is in the mind of JD(U) leadership. "I don't have information on Janata Dal (United) leaving the alliance. I have written a letter to them. Tried to speak to them. But don't know what's on Nitish Kumar's mind," said Kharge, while speaking to the reporters. "Tomorrow I'll go to Delhi and take full information. Let's see what will happen. We don't have information that Nitish will resign. He hasn't told us about meeting Governor. I don't have information so can't tell you authentic. Let's see what happens," he said. Watch: The saga of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's many U-turns The Congress president said, "We are trying our best to make everyone unite together. I've spoken to Mamata (Banerjee) and Nitish and (Sitaram) Yechury to be united. Told them we need to be united only then we can give a good fight. India alliance will work well and democracy should be saved, whoever wants this won't take a hasty decision is what I feel.” JD(U) leader KC Tyagi says Nitish 'misunderstood' Meanwhile, senior JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said that the INDIA bloc has been facing issues in different states because of Congress and added that the Mahagathbandhan is all set to collapse. "The INDIA bloc is on the verge of collapse. The alliance of INDIA bloc parties is almost over in Punjab, West Bengal and Bihar," said Tyagi, as quoted by ANI. "The goal and intentions with which Kumar, the JD(U) president, succeeded in bringing non-Congress parties with the Congress have come unstuck," he added, asserting that the leader was "misunderstood". "Kumar never hankered after a position in the alliance but a section of the Congress leadership repeatedly insulted him," Tyagi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India Elections 2024: Nitish Kumar keeps Bihar politics on tenterhooks; RJD, Congress react to crisis

The state of Bihar is going through a sudden political upheaval. BJP schedules legislative meeting in light of developments. According to sources, RJD might parade legislators in 'show of strength.' Media reports suggest that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is planning to join hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party. Watch to know more!

India: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to dissolve legislature, says reports

The state of Bihar is going through a sudden political upheaval. Media reports suggest that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is planning to join hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party yet again it is now being reported that Kumar will likely be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time with support from the BJP.

Nitish Kumar's guessing game, Bihar's JD(U) to join hands with BJP

Bihar: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to dissolve legislature, says reports

The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Kumar, the chief minister of one of India's poorest but also politically consequential Bihar state in eastern India, is the leader of the Janata Dal (United) party. At the time of filing this report, he remains&nbsp;in alliance with former state chief minister and central railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).&nbsp;

Kumar's JD(U) and Yadav's (RJD) are also part of the Indian National Congress-led Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.), a bloc with many regional parties forged by the Congress to de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power in the general elections in the coming spring.&nbsp;

Multiple media publications have reported that Nitish Kumar is set to join hands with the BJP to reconstitute the state government in Bihar. This would come as&nbsp;a major jolt to the Congress-led I.N.D.I.A. political bloc ahead of national elections later this year.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP?

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Bihar constitutes 40 seats in the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha. In the 2019 general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won an impressive&nbsp;39 seats. Notably, Nitish Kumar led JD(U) was in alliance with the PM Modi's&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019. The BJP won 17, while JD(U) took 16 and another NDA partner Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) won 6 seats.&nbsp;

<h2>How does Nitish on BJP's side harm 'I.N.D.I.A' politically?</h2>

In a state widely divided on caste lines, Nitish Kumar's JD(U) along with Lalu Prasad's RJD have been popular among Other Backward Castes (OBCs), Extremely Backward Castes (EBCs) as well as the Muslims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP, however, has made inroads among these communities in Bihar with central welfare programs. But together, the JD(U), RJD along with the Congress party&nbsp;claim to helm over a sizeable voter base that they believe&nbsp;would&nbsp;halt&nbsp;the BJP's election juggernaut in Bihar in the 2024 elections.

<h2>Administrative rejig ahead of likely change of guard in Patna</h2>

Meanwhile, the Bihar government executed a major administrative reshuffle on Friday (Jan 26), transferring key officers across various services. A total of 22 Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 79 Indian Police Service (IPS), and 45 Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) officers were affected by the reshuffling.

Among the notable changes, Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh, a 2010-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as special secretary in the chief minister's secretariat. This move follows Singh's recent involvement in a publicised dispute with the state education department over the closure of schools in Patna due to cold wave conditions.&nbsp;

Shirsat Kapil Ashok, a 2011-batch IAS officer currently serving as Inspector General (prisons), will take over as the new Patna DM.

The Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) witnessed changes as well, with 45 officers receiving new postings.

This significant administrative shuffle comes on the heels of a similar move on January 23, where 29 senior IAS officers were reassigned to new roles.&nbsp;

A senior official from the General Administration Department&nbsp;told news agency Press Trust of India that these transfers and postings are part of routine exercises.

(With inputs from agencies)

The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

The state of affairs in the power corridors of India's Bihar state continues to evolve with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expected to jump into the ship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Kumar, the chief minister of one of India's poorest but also politically consequential Bihar state in eastern India, is the leader of the Janata Dal (United) party. At the time of filing this report, he remains in alliance with former state chief minister and central railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Kumar's JD(U) and Yadav's (RJD) are also part of the Indian National Congress-led Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.), a bloc with many regional parties forged by the Congress to de-seat Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power in the general elections in the coming spring. Multiple media publications have reported that Nitish Kumar is set to join hands with the BJP to reconstitute the state government in Bihar. This would come as a major jolt to the Congress-led I.N.D.I.A. political bloc ahead of national elections later this year. Also watch | India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP? × Bihar constitutes 40 seats in the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha. In the 2019 general elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won an impressive 39 seats. Notably, Nitish Kumar led JD(U) was in alliance with the PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party in 2019. The BJP won 17, while JD(U) took 16 and another NDA partner Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) won 6 seats. How does Nitish on BJP's side harm 'I.N.D.I.A' politically? In a state widely divided on caste lines, Nitish Kumar's JD(U) along with Lalu Prasad's RJD have been popular among Other Backward Castes (OBCs), Extremely Backward Castes (EBCs) as well as the Muslims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP, however, has made inroads among these communities in Bihar with central welfare programs. But together, the JD(U), RJD along with the Congress party claim to helm over a sizeable voter base that they believe would halt the BJP's election juggernaut in Bihar in the 2024 elections. Administrative rejig ahead of likely change of guard in Patna Meanwhile, the Bihar government executed a major administrative reshuffle on Friday (Jan 26), transferring key officers across various services. A total of 22 Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 79 Indian Police Service (IPS), and 45 Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) officers were affected by the reshuffling. Among the notable changes, Patna District Magistrate Chandrasekhar Singh, a 2010-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as special secretary in the chief minister's secretariat. This move follows Singh's recent involvement in a publicised dispute with the state education department over the closure of schools in Patna due to cold wave conditions. Shirsat Kapil Ashok, a 2011-batch IAS officer currently serving as Inspector General (prisons), will take over as the new Patna DM. The Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) witnessed changes as well, with 45 officers receiving new postings. This significant administrative shuffle comes on the heels of a similar move on January 23, where 29 senior IAS officers were reassigned to new roles. A senior official from the General Administration Department told news agency Press Trust of India that these transfers and postings are part of routine exercises. (With inputs from agencies)

'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports

Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of the India's eastern state, Bihar, was instrumental in initiating unity talks among the opposition I.N.D.I.A constituent is now poised to make a stunning u-turn and join hands with prime minister Modi's party, the BJP.

The saga of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's many U-turns

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP)&nbsp;unit in eastern Indian state of Bihar on Thursday (January 25) appeared to exploit a development which resembled a rift between the Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the constituents of the ruling 'Grand Alliance' government in the state. The BJP, which once ruled the state is currently in Opposition.

Bihar BJP leader demanded that Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav should apologise to JD(U) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for her now-deleted posts on social media platform X.

Anand shared screenshots of the posts, seeking to draw attention to words like 'badtameez' (ill-mannered), and said that Rohini Acharya should apologise to Kumar if she regretted using such language about the state's chief minister.

Watch | PM Modi's bid to reach voters in Western Uttar Pradesh

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Kumar at a recent rally celebrating former Bihar CM and socialist icon late Karpoori Yadav's birth anniversary said that he always walked on the path shown by Thakur and did not promote his own family members in the party and criticised dynastic politics.

It was seen by many as a dig against Lalu Prasad Yadav whose son Tejashvi Yadav is deputy chief minister in Nitish Kumar's government. Lalu's other son Tej Pratap Yadav is a minister in the government.

Lalu's daughter Rohini Acharya's post was seen as criticisim of Nitish Kumar.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ahead-of-republic-day-pm-modi-and-french-president-macron-hold-roadshow-in-jaipur-683610">India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur</a>

JD(U) however, appeared to downplay the incident, with its leader KC Tyagi saying that Kumar did not criticise Lalu Prasad Yadav.

"Nitish Kumar was addressing a programme organised on the birth anniversary of Karpoori Thakur, whom he has idolised. Like all great socialists, Thakur abhorred dynastic succession in politics. This was the simple fact Nitish Kumar wanted to underscore. Nothing more should be read into it," said Tyagi.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appeals-youth-to-defeat-family-run-parties-their-votes-683594">PM Modi appeals youth to defeat family-run parties through their votes</a>

Nitish Kumar has no wish to condemn any regional party or leader," Tyagi said. "Those who think a dynasty is essential for the nation, are free to draw their own conclusion," he added.

(Wih inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) unit in eastern Indian state of Bihar on Thursday (January 25) appeared to exploit a development which resembled a rift between the Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the constituents of the ruling 'Grand Alliance' government in the state.

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) unit in eastern Indian state of Bihar on Thursday (January 25) appeared to exploit a development which resembled a rift between the Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the constituents of the ruling 'Grand Alliance' government in the state. The BJP, which once ruled the state is currently in Opposition. Bihar BJP leader demanded that Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav should apologise to JD(U) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for her now-deleted posts on social media platform X. Anand shared screenshots of the posts, seeking to draw attention to words like 'badtameez' (ill-mannered), and said that Rohini Acharya should apologise to Kumar if she regretted using such language about the state's chief minister. Watch | PM Modi's bid to reach voters in Western Uttar Pradesh × Kumar at a recent rally celebrating former Bihar CM and socialist icon late Karpoori Yadav's birth anniversary said that he always walked on the path shown by Thakur and did not promote his own family members in the party and criticised dynastic politics. It was seen by many as a dig against Lalu Prasad Yadav whose son Tejashvi Yadav is deputy chief minister in Nitish Kumar's government. Lalu's other son Tej Pratap Yadav is a minister in the government. Lalu's daughter Rohini Acharya's post was seen as criticisim of Nitish Kumar. Also Read | India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur JD(U) however, appeared to downplay the incident, with its leader KC Tyagi saying that Kumar did not criticise Lalu Prasad Yadav. "Nitish Kumar was addressing a programme organised on the birth anniversary of Karpoori Thakur, whom he has idolised. Like all great socialists, Thakur abhorred dynastic succession in politics. This was the simple fact Nitish Kumar wanted to underscore. Nothing more should be read into it," said Tyagi. Also Read | PM Modi appeals youth to defeat family-run parties through their votes Nitish Kumar has no wish to condemn any regional party or leader," Tyagi said. "Those who think a dynasty is essential for the nation, are free to draw their own conclusion," he added. (Wih inputs from agencies)

India: Bihar BJP demands apology from Lalu's daughter for post about CM Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's announcement that he would be skipping the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra immediately triggered a controversy that has by now snowballed into a major story from the state of Bihar. Watch for more details.

Speculations over I.N.D.I.A ally Nitish Kumar's return to BJP-led NDA | Race To Power

The&nbsp;ruling Grand Alliance or 'Magagatbandhan' in Bihar appeared conflicted over the central government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi posthumously awarding the Bharat Ratna, India's biggest civilian honour, to the eastern state's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur.

Let me break down the controversy for you.

While the alliance partner Janata Dal (United) of JD(U) hailed Prime Minister Modi, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Bihar Congress said the decision was politically motivated with an eye on the approaching general elections later this year.&nbsp;

There was some bitterness already within the alliance. There was a tussle over the Malmas Mela incident in Rajgir, Nalanda, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's home district. People's attention was drawn to his deputy Tejashwi Prasad Yadav from RJD, who was 'missing' from the banners and hoardings erected by the state administration to welcome tourists.

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&nbsp;

<h2>Who was Karpoori Thakur?&nbsp;</h2>

Karpoori Thakur (1924–1988)&nbsp;was an Indian politician and member of the Bharatiya Kranti Dal. He served as Bihar's 11th chief minister for two terms, 1970 to 1971 and 1977 to 1979.&nbsp;

He also served as Bihar's education minister from 1967 to 1968.&nbsp;

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Thakur was known as Jan Nayak, which means "people's hero" in Hindi. He was noted for his modest lifestyle, straightforward intellect, and strong will.&nbsp;

He was also noted for his work to improve the lives of Dalits, the oppressed people, and the disadvantaged.&nbsp;

Despite his effective governance and principled leadership, Thakur's prominence dwindled with time.&nbsp;

The advent of a new wave of social justice leaders in Bihar altered the political landscape, resulting in a transition in the state's leadership.&nbsp;

While some of Thakur's policy moves sparked debate, his integrity was widely respected. Thakur's policies and reforms had a lasting impact, ushering in important changes in critical areas such as education, employment, and farmer welfare.

The 'Karpoori Thakur Formula' granted 26% reservation in jobs for disadvantaged communities.

The OBCs or other backward communities received 12 per cent&nbsp;reservation, economically backward OBCs got eight&nbsp;per cent, women three&nbsp;per cent, and poor "upper castes" three&nbsp;per cent.&nbsp;

Although it encountered criticism, the&nbsp;'Karpoori Thakur Formula'&nbsp;made a significant contribution to Bihar's political and social scene.&nbsp;

Other bold policy decisions he made, such as abolishing the obligatory study of English, establishing alcohol prohibition, and preferred treatment for jobless engineers, had a long-lasting impact.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-karpoori-thakur-the-jan-nayak-honoured-with-bharat-ratna-posthumously-682918">Also read |&nbsp;Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously</a>

<h2>What is the Bihar alliance and why is the divide?</h2>

The Bihar Alliance or Magagadbandhan consists of JD (U), RJD, Indian National Congress (INC), and Left parties including the Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation-CPI ML (Liberation) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), with Nitish Kumar from JD (U) as the chief minister.&nbsp;

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“This is a combination of mixed personalities, ideologies, and personal chemistry,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Sajjan Kumar, a political analyst told WION.&nbsp;

He said the current controversy over Bharat Ratna is associated with the recent political history of Bihar.

He pointed out that BP Mandal, another former chief minister,&nbsp; and Karpoori Thakur&nbsp;never went along.

Mandal was a prominent member of the Yadav community, which is part of OBCs.

His report, the so-called Mandal Commission Report, was a key instrument of OBC reservations and political mobilisation of OBCs. 
 
His term as chief minister of Bihar was short-lived.&nbsp;

"Where a dominant OBC conspired with the Congress and the first Non-Congress Government was meant to collapse," Kumar noted.&nbsp;

Lalu Prasad Yadav, another prominent OBC leader who was a long-term chief minister and father of the current deputy CM, "cultivated the model of Mandal, a feudal mindset whereas Nitish Kumar went with the model of Karpoori Thakur which was interested in the egalitarian government, a more grounded one which works for the deeper sections," Kumar pointed out.&nbsp;

"It’s about leadership chemistry, where one can fit with the other one.”&nbsp;

What does Bharat Ratna decision tell us about the BJP's ideology?

According to Kumar, conferring of the Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur "is a brilliant political move by the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party which rules at the centre) to reach the Extreme Backward Class (EBCs)".

"Additionally, this could be a respectable offering or incentive to Nitish and use it to exit the Mahagadbandhan." 
 
"According to insiders, things are not going well in the coalition. This has been the BJP's ideology for quite some time. This is a pan-Indian template. It was difficult for Bihar because Nitish and Lalu took away a large population that the BJP struggled to break."&nbsp;

With political parties seeking to honour the late Thakur's 100th birth anniversary as an extremely backward caste (EBC), the BJP's decision is expected to have an impact on the political landscape. 
 
Parties are attempting to appeal to EBC voters in the light of a recent Bihar caste census finding that they account for 36 per cent&nbsp;of the population. 
 
That may be the political reason for conferring Bharat Ratna to Thakur.

The ruling Grand Alliance or 'Magagatbandhan' in Bihar appeared conflicted over the central government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi posthumously awarding the Bharat Ratna, India's biggest civilian honour, to the eastern state's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur.

The ruling Grand Alliance or 'Magagatbandhan' in Bihar appeared conflicted over the central government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi posthumously awarding the Bharat Ratna, India's biggest civilian honour, to the eastern state's former chief minister Karpoori Thakur. Let me break down the controversy for you. While the alliance partner Janata Dal (United) of JD(U) hailed Prime Minister Modi, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Bihar Congress said the decision was politically motivated with an eye on the approaching general elections later this year. There was some bitterness already within the alliance. There was a tussle over the Malmas Mela incident in Rajgir, Nalanda, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's home district. People's attention was drawn to his deputy Tejashwi Prasad Yadav from RJD, who was 'missing' from the banners and hoardings erected by the state administration to welcome tourists. Who was Karpoori Thakur? Karpoori Thakur (1924–1988) was an Indian politician and member of the Bharatiya Kranti Dal. He served as Bihar's 11th chief minister for two terms, 1970 to 1971 and 1977 to 1979. He also served as Bihar's education minister from 1967 to 1968. Thakur was known as Jan Nayak, which means "people's hero" in Hindi. He was noted for his modest lifestyle, straightforward intellect, and strong will. He was also noted for his work to improve the lives of Dalits, the oppressed people, and the disadvantaged. Despite his effective governance and principled leadership, Thakur's prominence dwindled with time. The advent of a new wave of social justice leaders in Bihar altered the political landscape, resulting in a transition in the state's leadership. While some of Thakur's policy moves sparked debate, his integrity was widely respected. Thakur's policies and reforms had a lasting impact, ushering in important changes in critical areas such as education, employment, and farmer welfare. The 'Karpoori Thakur Formula' granted 26% reservation in jobs for disadvantaged communities. The OBCs or other backward communities received 12 per cent reservation, economically backward OBCs got eight per cent, women three per cent, and poor "upper castes" three per cent. Although it encountered criticism, the 'Karpoori Thakur Formula' made a significant contribution to Bihar's political and social scene. Other bold policy decisions he made, such as abolishing the obligatory study of English, establishing alcohol prohibition, and preferred treatment for jobless engineers, had a long-lasting impact. Also read | Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously What is the Bihar alliance and why is the divide? The Bihar Alliance or Magagadbandhan consists of JD (U), RJD, Indian National Congress (INC), and Left parties including the Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation-CPI ML (Liberation) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM), with Nitish Kumar from JD (U) as the chief minister. “This is a combination of mixed personalities, ideologies, and personal chemistry," Sajjan Kumar, a political analyst told WION. He said the current controversy over Bharat Ratna is associated with the recent political history of Bihar. He pointed out that BP Mandal, another former chief minister, and Karpoori Thakur never went along. Mandal was a prominent member of the Yadav community, which is part of OBCs. His report, the so-called Mandal Commission Report, was a key instrument of OBC reservations and political mobilisation of OBCs. His term as chief minister of Bihar was short-lived. "Where a dominant OBC conspired with the Congress and the first Non-Congress Government was meant to collapse," Kumar noted. Lalu Prasad Yadav, another prominent OBC leader who was a long-term chief minister and father of the current deputy CM, "cultivated the model of Mandal, a feudal mindset whereas Nitish Kumar went with the model of Karpoori Thakur which was interested in the egalitarian government, a more grounded one which works for the deeper sections," Kumar pointed out. "It’s about leadership chemistry, where one can fit with the other one.” What does Bharat Ratna decision tell us about the BJP's ideology? According to Kumar, conferring of the Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur "is a brilliant political move by the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party which rules at the centre) to reach the Extreme Backward Class (EBCs)". "Additionally, this could be a respectable offering or incentive to Nitish and use it to exit the Mahagadbandhan." "According to insiders, things are not going well in the coalition. This has been the BJP's ideology for quite some time. This is a pan-Indian template. It was difficult for Bihar because Nitish and Lalu took away a large population that the BJP struggled to break." With political parties seeking to honour the late Thakur's 100th birth anniversary as an extremely backward caste (EBC), the BJP's decision is expected to have an impact on the political landscape. Parties are attempting to appeal to EBC voters in the light of a recent Bihar caste census finding that they account for 36 per cent of the population. That may be the political reason for conferring Bharat Ratna to Thakur.

Explained: Bharat Ratna Award divides Bihar Alliance - a socio-economic or political move?

The Congress party has reignited the demand for a nationwide caste census, welcoming the Narendra Modi government's decision to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna on two-time Bihar chief minister and socialist icon Karpoori Thakur.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, in charge of communications, accused the Modi government of "desperation and hypocrisy" regarding the award and emphasised the necessity of a caste census as part of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

“Bhagidari Nyay is one of the five pillars of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. It will need a nation-wide caste census as a starting point,” Ramesh said in a social media post on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-karpoori-thakur-the-jan-nayak-honoured-with-bharat-ratna-posthumously-682918">Also read |&nbsp;Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously</a>

<h2>Bhagidari Nyay and caste census</h2>

Ramesh stated that Bhagidari Nyay, one of the pillars of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, requires a nationwide caste census as a foundational step.

He pointed out the government's refusal to release the 2011 caste census data despite Mahatma Gandhi's repeated calls and its reluctance to commit to conducting an updated census. Ramesh argued that conducting a caste census would be the most fitting tribute to Jananayak Karpoori Thakur, accusing the Modi government of evading this responsibility.

While Rahul Gandhi welcomed the decision to confer Bharat Ratna on Thakur, he criticised the government for not releasing the Social and Economic Caste Census, emphasising the need for real justice over symbolic politics.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre, along with Bihar's alliance partners like JD(U) and RJD, engaged in a race to claim credit for the decision to award Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur. Bihar Deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav expressed gratitude to the central government, highlighting Thakur's lifelong commitment to the welfare of weaker and marginalised sections.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Immediate halt on Lucknow-Ayodhya bus service

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<h2>Nitish Kumar's acknowledgment</h2>

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar thanked Prime Minister Modi for conferring Bharat Ratna on his political mentor, Karpoori Thakur. Kumar asserted that the decision would send a positive message to deprived sections, expressing delight over the fulfillment of JD(U)'s long-standing demand.

Karpoori Thakur, a key figure in the socialist movement, served as Bihar's chief minister for two non-consecutive terms. Known for his efforts towards social justice, he implemented the "Karpoori Thakur Formula," advocating reservations in government jobs for economically backward classes. The decision to award him Bharat Ratna posthumously has triggered political dynamics, with parties engaging in a tug of war over credit and recognition.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Congress party has reignited the demand for a nationwide caste census, welcoming the Narendra Modi government's decision to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna on two-time Bihar chief minister and socialist icon Karpoori Thakur.

The Congress party has reignited the demand for a nationwide caste census, welcoming the Narendra Modi government's decision to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna on two-time Bihar chief minister and socialist icon Karpoori Thakur. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, in charge of communications, accused the Modi government of "desperation and hypocrisy" regarding the award and emphasised the necessity of a caste census as part of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. “Bhagidari Nyay is one of the five pillars of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. It will need a nation-wide caste census as a starting point,” Ramesh said in a social media post on X. Also read | Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously Bhagidari Nyay and caste census Ramesh stated that Bhagidari Nyay, one of the pillars of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, requires a nationwide caste census as a foundational step. He pointed out the government's refusal to release the 2011 caste census data despite Mahatma Gandhi's repeated calls and its reluctance to commit to conducting an updated census. Ramesh argued that conducting a caste census would be the most fitting tribute to Jananayak Karpoori Thakur, accusing the Modi government of evading this responsibility. While Rahul Gandhi welcomed the decision to confer Bharat Ratna on Thakur, he criticised the government for not releasing the Social and Economic Caste Census, emphasising the need for real justice over symbolic politics. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre, along with Bihar's alliance partners like JD(U) and RJD, engaged in a race to claim credit for the decision to award Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur. Bihar Deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav expressed gratitude to the central government, highlighting Thakur's lifelong commitment to the welfare of weaker and marginalised sections. Also watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Immediate halt on Lucknow-Ayodhya bus service Nitish Kumar's acknowledgment Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar thanked Prime Minister Modi for conferring Bharat Ratna on his political mentor, Karpoori Thakur. Kumar asserted that the decision would send a positive message to deprived sections, expressing delight over the fulfillment of JD(U)'s long-standing demand. Karpoori Thakur, a key figure in the socialist movement, served as Bihar's chief minister for two non-consecutive terms. Known for his efforts towards social justice, he implemented the "Karpoori Thakur Formula," advocating reservations in government jobs for economically backward classes. The decision to award him Bharat Ratna posthumously has triggered political dynamics, with parties engaging in a tug of war over credit and recognition. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bihar Grand Alliance divided over Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur, Rahul calls it ‘symbolic politics’

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