Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-re-elected-as-jdu-president-unopposed-254079">&nbsp;Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed</a>

Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements which appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-deputy-cm-sushil-modi-refuses-to-answer-questions-on-deaths-due-to-encephalitis-in-conference-228669">Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Modi refuses to answer questions on deaths due to Encephalitis in conference</a>

The advertisement mentioned her as president, Plurals, and the CM Candidate, Bihar. Currently, Bihar is ruled by BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-defends-presidents-rule-in-maharashtra-262046">&nbsp;Bihar CM Nitish Kumar defends President's rule in Maharashtra</a>

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar.

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar. Also read: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements which appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday. Also read: Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Modi refuses to answer questions on deaths due to Encephalitis in conference The advertisement mentioned her as president, Plurals, and the CM Candidate, Bihar. Currently, Bihar is ruled by BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Also read: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar defends President's rule in Maharashtra

London-based woman declares herself 'CM candidate' for Bihar Assembly polls

Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled this year, chief minister Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) expelled the poll strategist Prashant Kishor and diplomat-turned politician Pavan Varma, citing 'anti-party activities'.

Kishor was the Vice-President of the party and Varma was the General-Secretary of JD(U). The two had been quite vocal about their opposition&nbsp;to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Open Revolt

Nitish Kumar was apparently miffed with both Kishor and Varma because of their open criticism of the party for supporting CAA.&nbsp;

The JD(U) had voted for the Citizenship Amendment Act in both houses of Parliament. Pavan Varma even wrote an open letter to the chief minister over the party's alliance with the BJP outside Bihar, and sought clarity over the party's stand on CAA and NRC.

Varma was also extremely critical of the BJP in his open letter.

Kishor and Varma were considered to be the close aides of Nitish Kumar. However, after Varma tweeted the letter publicly, Kumar broke his silence for the first time, giving Varma an option to leave JD(U) and join any other party of his choice.

Nitish Kumar even said that Prashant Kishor was inducted into the party at the recommendation of the then BJP chief Amit Shah. After this, Kishor had hit out at Nitish Kumar in an angry tweet, accusing him of lying.

BJP Factor

Amit Shah had announced that the BJP would be fighting the Bihar Assembly Elections under the leadership of Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

According to the party sources, Prashant Kishor was not happy with the seat-sharing ratio that JD(U) and the BJP had agreed upon. He had asked JD(U) to contest the higher number of seats than the BJP in Bihar Assembly Elections.

Furthermore, Kishor and Varma were also upset with JD(U) for tying-up with the BJP for the upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections. BJP will be fighting the Delhi polls with its NDA partners - JD(U) and LJP.&nbsp;

They both had been claiming that JD(U)'s support to CAA was an act to maintain the balance with the BJP.

The differences were already growing within the party over Nitish giving preference to the 'outsiders' - Prashant Kishor and Pavan Varma. But alas, no one knew - things will turn this bitter and lead&nbsp;to the JD(U) chief&nbsp;expelling his own handpicked aides. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled this year, chief minister Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) expelled the poll strategist Prashant Kishor and diplomat-turned politician Pavan Varma, citing 'anti-party activities'.

Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled this year, chief minister Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) expelled the poll strategist Prashant Kishor and diplomat-turned politician Pavan Varma, citing 'anti-party activities'. Kishor was the Vice-President of the party and Varma was the General-Secretary of JD(U). The two had been quite vocal about their opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC). Open Revolt Nitish Kumar was apparently miffed with both Kishor and Varma because of their open criticism of the party for supporting CAA. The JD(U) had voted for the Citizenship Amendment Act in both houses of Parliament. Pavan Varma even wrote an open letter to the chief minister over the party's alliance with the BJP outside Bihar, and sought clarity over the party's stand on CAA and NRC. Varma was also extremely critical of the BJP in his open letter. Kishor and Varma were considered to be the close aides of Nitish Kumar. However, after Varma tweeted the letter publicly, Kumar broke his silence for the first time, giving Varma an option to leave JD(U) and join any other party of his choice. Nitish Kumar even said that Prashant Kishor was inducted into the party at the recommendation of the then BJP chief Amit Shah. After this, Kishor had hit out at Nitish Kumar in an angry tweet, accusing him of lying. BJP Factor Amit Shah had announced that the BJP would be fighting the Bihar Assembly Elections under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. According to the party sources, Prashant Kishor was not happy with the seat-sharing ratio that JD(U) and the BJP had agreed upon. He had asked JD(U) to contest the higher number of seats than the BJP in Bihar Assembly Elections. Furthermore, Kishor and Varma were also upset with JD(U) for tying-up with the BJP for the upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections. BJP will be fighting the Delhi polls with its NDA partners - JD(U) and LJP. They both had been claiming that JD(U)'s support to CAA was an act to maintain the balance with the BJP. The differences were already growing within the party over Nitish giving preference to the 'outsiders' - Prashant Kishor and Pavan Varma. But alas, no one knew - things will turn this bitter and lead to the JD(U) chief expelling his own handpicked aides. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Nitish Kumar's JD(U) expelled Prashant Kishor and Pavan Varma

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years.

The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination.

Speaking to ANI, national election officer of JD(U), Anil Hedge said, "On September 27, a notification was issued for the election to the post of JDU party president."

He said the last date for filing nomination was October 4.&nbsp;

"As till date, only Nitish Kumar has filed nominations and October 5 being the day for scrutiny and him being the only candidate for the post, therefore, I announced his election unopposed," he said.

The certificate for re-election as JDU president for Nitish Kumar was handed over to his representative Sanjay Kumar Singh, who is an MLC from Bihar, by Hedge at the party office in the national capital.

Bihar`s Water Resources Minister Sanjay Jha congratulated Kumar on his re-election and expressed the hope that under his guidance, the party will retain power in the elections.

"I congratulate Nitish Kumar on becoming the party president again. Under his leadership, the JDU will form government again in Bihar in 2020 and once again he will become the Chief Minister of the state," Jha told ANI here.

"Kumar is a visionary leader not only in Bihar but he is one of the best political figures in the country. I am proud to work under his leadership, " Jha added.

Under Kumar`s leadership, JDU bagged 16 out of the 17 Lok Sabha seats it contested in the 2019 general elections while 7 MLAs of the party won in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly election.JDU is also planning to fight on all seats in the soon to be held Jharkhand and Delhi assembly elections.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years. The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years. The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination. Speaking to ANI, national election officer of JD(U), Anil Hedge said, "On September 27, a notification was issued for the election to the post of JDU party president." He said the last date for filing nomination was October 4. "As till date, only Nitish Kumar has filed nominations and October 5 being the day for scrutiny and him being the only candidate for the post, therefore, I announced his election unopposed," he said. The certificate for re-election as JDU president for Nitish Kumar was handed over to his representative Sanjay Kumar Singh, who is an MLC from Bihar, by Hedge at the party office in the national capital. Bihar`s Water Resources Minister Sanjay Jha congratulated Kumar on his re-election and expressed the hope that under his guidance, the party will retain power in the elections. "I congratulate Nitish Kumar on becoming the party president again. Under his leadership, the JDU will form government again in Bihar in 2020 and once again he will become the Chief Minister of the state," Jha told ANI here. "Kumar is a visionary leader not only in Bihar but he is one of the best political figures in the country. I am proud to work under his leadership, " Jha added. Under Kumar`s leadership, JDU bagged 16 out of the 17 Lok Sabha seats it contested in the 2019 general elections while 7 MLAs of the party won in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly election.JDU is also planning to fight on all seats in the soon to be held Jharkhand and Delhi assembly elections.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post.

According to top party sources, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bjp-president-accuses-nitish-kumar-of-negligence-as-flood-death-toll-rises-to-42-253203">Nitish</a>'s behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here.

Sources said that Kumar will be elected unopposed for the 'second time' to the post of JDU president.

In wake of the flood situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-floods-rises-to-73-as-water-starts-to-recede-253405">Bihar</a>, Kumar did not go to Delhi to submit nomination papers, so his representatives have submitted nomination papers to the national election officer.

Today was the last day for submitting nomination papers for the top party post, which will be scrutinized on Saturday.

October 6 is the last day for withdrawal of nomination and the results will be announced on October 19.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post. According to top party sources, on Nitish's behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post. According to top party sources, on Nitish's behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here. Sources said that Kumar will be elected unopposed for the 'second time' to the post of JDU president. In wake of the flood situation in Bihar, Kumar did not go to Delhi to submit nomination papers, so his representatives have submitted nomination papers to the national election officer. Today was the last day for submitting nomination papers for the top party post, which will be scrutinized on Saturday. October 6 is the last day for withdrawal of nomination and the results will be announced on October 19.

Nitish Kumar files nomination for Janata Dal (United) national president's post

Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) national president Nitish Kumar on Monday met party's Delhi president Dayanand Rai to chalk out a strategy for the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled to be held next year.

"Nitish Kumar met the Dayanand Rai to talk about the Assembly elections in Delhi. The party will contest all the Assembly seats in Delhi in the upcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly," party spokesperson Satya Prakash Mishra said in an official statement.

The national capital has a sizable population of Purvanchali voters, he said, adding that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government took their votes but did not do any work.

"The expansion of JD (U) outside Bihar proves that the people have accepted leader Nitish Kumar`s vision and model of development," Mishra added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) national president Nitish Kumar on Monday met party's Delhi president Dayanand Rai to chalk out a strategy for the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled to be held next year.

Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) national president Nitish Kumar on Monday met party's Delhi president Dayanand Rai to chalk out a strategy for the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled to be held next year. "Nitish Kumar met the Dayanand Rai to talk about the Assembly elections in Delhi. The party will contest all the Assembly seats in Delhi in the upcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly," party spokesperson Satya Prakash Mishra said in an official statement. The national capital has a sizable population of Purvanchali voters, he said, adding that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government took their votes but did not do any work. "The expansion of JD (U) outside Bihar proves that the people have accepted leader Nitish Kumar`s vision and model of development," Mishra added.

JD(U) chalks out strategy for Delhi polls, to contest all seats

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP.

"Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said.

Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020.

Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture.

His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).

The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate".

The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar).

Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).&nbsp;

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020. Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP. "Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said. Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020. Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture. His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate". The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar). Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).

No change in leadership, Nitish to remain captain: Sushil Modi

Amid protests over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/acute-encephalitis-syndrome-death-toll-climbs-to-136-in-bihars-muzaffarpur-district-231824">Acute Encephalitis Syndrome</a> (AES) deaths in the state, leaders from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress gave notices for adjournment motion in the Bihar Assembly on Monday.

RJD leaders also raised slogans in the Assembly and demanded the resignation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-encephalitis-deaths-harsh-vardhan-mangal-pandey-face-inquiry-over-negligence-229955">Health Minister Mangal Pandey</a> over the deaths in Muzaffarpur.&nbsp;

So far, as many as 154 children have lost their lives in the district. "According to the data we have, till June 28, 720 were admitted, 586 were cured and 154 children died. The death rate has been brought down to 21 per cent. As compared to the data from 2011-19, the death rate due to AES has come down over the past few years," said Pandey responding to the outcry in Bihar Assembly.

"What happened is extremely unfortunate, expressing grief is not enough, it is an extremely serious issue. We have held several meetings and discussed the issue at length," said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said that he will raise the issue of AES deaths in the state Assembly.

Amid protests over Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) deaths in the state, leaders from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress gave notices for adjournment motion in the Bihar Assembly on Monday.

Amid protests over Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) deaths in the state, leaders from Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress gave notices for adjournment motion in the Bihar Assembly on Monday. RJD leaders also raised slogans in the Assembly and demanded the resignation of Health Minister Mangal Pandey over the deaths in Muzaffarpur. So far, as many as 154 children have lost their lives in the district. "According to the data we have, till June 28, 720 were admitted, 586 were cured and 154 children died. The death rate has been brought down to 21 per cent. As compared to the data from 2011-19, the death rate due to AES has come down over the past few years," said Pandey responding to the outcry in Bihar Assembly. "What happened is extremely unfortunate, expressing grief is not enough, it is an extremely serious issue. We have held several meetings and discussed the issue at length," said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Earlier today, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said that he will raise the issue of AES deaths in the state Assembly.

Protest over Acute Encephalitis Syndrome deaths in Bihar Assembly

Watch India Watch, 19th June 2019. To know more watch the video

Watch India Watch, 19th June 2019

The BJP-led NDA swept Bihar, winning 39 out of 40 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Lalu Yadav’s RJD received a drubbing, unable to even open its account. &nbsp;

The celebrations, though, were short-lived as Nitish Kumar, unhappy with the number of berths allotted, opted out of the Modi 2.0 ministry. He didn’t like a token representation in the Cabinet. After all, if Ram Vilas Paswan’s LJP with six MPs got one cabinet rank, JD(U) surely deserved at-least three berths with its 16 MPs! &nbsp;

JD(U)’s logic is not unjustified. It feels that NDA’s stupendous performance is due to a combination of the Modi wave as well as Nitish’s popularity. The BJP feels that allies like JD(U) benefitted from the Presidential-style elections. BJP’s logic, too, is not unjustified.&nbsp;

But Nitish has a big ego. So he retorted by expanding the state cabinet and inducting eight new ministers from JD(U), leaving out the BJP. &nbsp;

A recent meeting of the JD (U) national executive has also held that the alliance with BJP is limited to Bihar and the party will contest Assembly elections in Delhi, Jharkhand, Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir alone. Needless to say, JD (U) will not be able to make much impact in any of these states, apart from fracturing the votes.

But it has definitely sent a signal that all is not well within the Bihar NDA. His prodigy and national vice-president, Prashant Kishor, has taken up the assignment of helping Mamata Banerjee in Bengal, where the BJP — emboldened by its Lok Sabha performance — has upped the ante for state elections that are due in 2021. &nbsp;

Nitish is one of the biggest paltu-rams (U-turn specialists) of Indian politics. His opponents allege he is power hungry and will do anything to remain in power. Narendra Modi and Nitish also do not share a harmonious relationship. Nitish left NDA in June 2013 after Modi was made the BJP Campaign Committee Chief and when it was clear that he would be the PM face. &nbsp;

After being routed in Lok Sabha 2014, where JD(U) could manage only two seats, Nitish made friends with his rival Lalu Yadav. The Mahagathbandhan comprising JD(U), RJD and the Congress stopped the BJP juggernaut in Bihar, with Nitish retaining the CM chair, dealing a hard blow to Modi. &nbsp;

In 2017, when Lalu and family were embroiled in fresh corruption cases, Nitish returned to the NDA, satisfied that he had proved a point to the Modi-Shah duo that he could win without their support. In 2019, he bargained hard with the BJP for seats, getting an equal number (17) to contest and won all, barring one. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent events have fuelled rumours that Nitish will junk the NDA and move back to friend-turned-foe Lalu again. He cannot stay in an alliance where he is not the bigger partner. Nitish fears BJP may play big brother during state polls next year and demand an equal number of seats — and even the chief minister’s chair — if it manages to win more seats than the JD(U). The Bihar chief minister fears that the BJP may do a Shiv Sena on JD(U). So, he is caught between a stronger Modi and weakened Lalu.

Lalu’s RJD recorded its worst performance ever in Lok Sabha polls. His daughter Misa again lost to Ram Kirpal Yadav. His two sons Tejaswi and Tej Pratap have fallen out, which is harming the party’s prospects. Lalu is languishing in jail, his health is failing and prospects of an early release are pretty dim. He may not be averse to accepting Nitish back to revive his party’s sagging fortunes, despite the backstabbing in 2017.

Nitish has a vote bank which is transferable to any alliance. In the 2014 Lok Sabha, JD(U) secured 16 per cent votes. In 2015, this vote was transferred to the Mahagathbandhan, which improved its vote share from 27 per cent to 43 per cent. In 2019, yet again, it was transferred to NDA, which pulled up its vote share from 36 per cent to 53 per cent. Nitish enjoys good clout among Kurmi, Koeris, MBCs, Mahadalits and even Muslims. His schemes and policies have built a solid woman vote bank, not unlike Modi.

Nitish could wait for the five state election results, including Delhi early next year, before taking a final call.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-nitish-caught-between-a-strong-modi-and-weak-lalu-2760063">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The BJP-led NDA swept Bihar, winning 39 out of 40 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Lalu Yadav’s RJD received a drubbing, unable to even open its account.

The BJP-led NDA swept Bihar, winning 39 out of 40 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Lalu Yadav’s RJD received a drubbing, unable to even open its account. The celebrations, though, were short-lived as Nitish Kumar, unhappy with the number of berths allotted, opted out of the Modi 2.0 ministry. He didn’t like a token representation in the Cabinet. After all, if Ram Vilas Paswan’s LJP with six MPs got one cabinet rank, JD(U) surely deserved at-least three berths with its 16 MPs! JD(U)’s logic is not unjustified. It feels that NDA’s stupendous performance is due to a combination of the Modi wave as well as Nitish’s popularity. The BJP feels that allies like JD(U) benefitted from the Presidential-style elections. BJP’s logic, too, is not unjustified. But Nitish has a big ego. So he retorted by expanding the state cabinet and inducting eight new ministers from JD(U), leaving out the BJP. A recent meeting of the JD (U) national executive has also held that the alliance with BJP is limited to Bihar and the party will contest Assembly elections in Delhi, Jharkhand, Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir alone. Needless to say, JD (U) will not be able to make much impact in any of these states, apart from fracturing the votes. But it has definitely sent a signal that all is not well within the Bihar NDA. His prodigy and national vice-president, Prashant Kishor, has taken up the assignment of helping Mamata Banerjee in Bengal, where the BJP — emboldened by its Lok Sabha performance — has upped the ante for state elections that are due in 2021. Nitish is one of the biggest paltu-rams (U-turn specialists) of Indian politics. His opponents allege he is power hungry and will do anything to remain in power. Narendra Modi and Nitish also do not share a harmonious relationship. Nitish left NDA in June 2013 after Modi was made the BJP Campaign Committee Chief and when it was clear that he would be the PM face. After being routed in Lok Sabha 2014, where JD(U) could manage only two seats, Nitish made friends with his rival Lalu Yadav. The Mahagathbandhan comprising JD(U), RJD and the Congress stopped the BJP juggernaut in Bihar, with Nitish retaining the CM chair, dealing a hard blow to Modi. In 2017, when Lalu and family were embroiled in fresh corruption cases, Nitish returned to the NDA, satisfied that he had proved a point to the Modi-Shah duo that he could win without their support. In 2019, he bargained hard with the BJP for seats, getting an equal number (17) to contest and won all, barring one. Recent events have fuelled rumours that Nitish will junk the NDA and move back to friend-turned-foe Lalu again. He cannot stay in an alliance where he is not the bigger partner. Nitish fears BJP may play big brother during state polls next year and demand an equal number of seats — and even the chief minister’s chair — if it manages to win more seats than the JD(U). The Bihar chief minister fears that the BJP may do a Shiv Sena on JD(U). So, he is caught between a stronger Modi and weakened Lalu. Lalu’s RJD recorded its worst performance ever in Lok Sabha polls. His daughter Misa again lost to Ram Kirpal Yadav. His two sons Tejaswi and Tej Pratap have fallen out, which is harming the party’s prospects. Lalu is languishing in jail, his health is failing and prospects of an early release are pretty dim. He may not be averse to accepting Nitish back to revive his party’s sagging fortunes, despite the backstabbing in 2017. Nitish has a vote bank which is transferable to any alliance. In the 2014 Lok Sabha, JD(U) secured 16 per cent votes. In 2015, this vote was transferred to the Mahagathbandhan, which improved its vote share from 27 per cent to 43 per cent. In 2019, yet again, it was transferred to NDA, which pulled up its vote share from 36 per cent to 53 per cent. Nitish enjoys good clout among Kurmi, Koeris, MBCs, Mahadalits and even Muslims. His schemes and policies have built a solid woman vote bank, not unlike Modi. Nitish could wait for the five state election results, including Delhi early next year, before taking a final call. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Nitish Kumar, caught between a strong Modi and weak Lalu

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

"We want to make it clear once again that we are and will remain a part of the NDA. We are going to contest the 2020 Assembly polls under the banner of NDA and the leadership of Nitish Kumar," senior JDU leader KC Tyagi said while addressing a press conference here after the national executive meeting.

However, he also clarified that JDU won't be a part of the NDA government at the Centre.

Rejecting media reports that JDU had forwarded the names of some leaders to be inducted into the Union Council of Ministers, Tyagi said, "JDU did not forward any names for the Cabinet."

"In the first meeting between Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, Shahji said that we have the majority but we will still give symbolic representation to all our allies. Nitish ji politely said that this is not possible."

The senior JDU leader asserted that offer to join the Union Cabinet came on a number of occasions, but these were turned down by his party.

"Just like the last time, when we did not join the government for two years but continued to support it, similarly, this time too, we will continue to support the government from outside," he said.

"We reject all such rumours and misinformation and slandering campaigns," he said while reminding that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar addressed 171 meetings for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Talking about the party's plans discussed at the meeting of the national executive, Tyagi said,&nbsp;"We want to make our party a national party. We are a recognised party in Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh. The party has decided to contest the upcoming Assembly election in four states. We will try that we become a national party by 2020."

He also made it clear that JDU won't support the scrapping of Article 370.

"Jayaprakash Narayan was the only leader to support Article 370 when it was attacked by the Congress and attempts were made to dilute it. We are his descendants. It is our responsibility to raise questions put up by our ancestors. So there won`t be any compromise on that," he said.

Commenting on the Ram temple issue, the JDU leader said,&nbsp;"Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat have said it that nothing will happen on the Ram Mandir front until the Supreme Court order is out."

"May this government last longer. May the country prosper under the leadership of Narendra Modi but we will not accept anything other than proportional representation," he said.

Clarifying about the controversy over JDU leader Prashant Kishor working for TMC leader Mamata Banerjee, Tyagi said,&nbsp;"IPAC has nothing to do with the JDU. Now, he is a doctor (pointing towards a leader sitting beside him). Should he stop giving prescriptions to Congress workers?"

"We want BJP to win in West Bengal and the TMC to lose. Is Prashant Kishor going to seek votes? Why would the party have any objection against his works until or unless he doesn`t make a statement or does something against the JDU and NDA," he added.&nbsp;

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). "We want to make it clear once again that we are and will remain a part of the NDA. We are going to contest the 2020 Assembly polls under the banner of NDA and the leadership of Nitish Kumar," senior JDU leader KC Tyagi said while addressing a press conference here after the national executive meeting. However, he also clarified that JDU won't be a part of the NDA government at the Centre. Rejecting media reports that JDU had forwarded the names of some leaders to be inducted into the Union Council of Ministers, Tyagi said, "JDU did not forward any names for the Cabinet." "In the first meeting between Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, Shahji said that we have the majority but we will still give symbolic representation to all our allies. Nitish ji politely said that this is not possible." The senior JDU leader asserted that offer to join the Union Cabinet came on a number of occasions, but these were turned down by his party. "Just like the last time, when we did not join the government for two years but continued to support it, similarly, this time too, we will continue to support the government from outside," he said. "We reject all such rumours and misinformation and slandering campaigns," he said while reminding that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar addressed 171 meetings for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Talking about the party's plans discussed at the meeting of the national executive, Tyagi said, "We want to make our party a national party. We are a recognised party in Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh. The party has decided to contest the upcoming Assembly election in four states. We will try that we become a national party by 2020." He also made it clear that JDU won't support the scrapping of Article 370. "Jayaprakash Narayan was the only leader to support Article 370 when it was attacked by the Congress and attempts were made to dilute it. We are his descendants. It is our responsibility to raise questions put up by our ancestors. So there won`t be any compromise on that," he said. Commenting on the Ram temple issue, the JDU leader said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat have said it that nothing will happen on the Ram Mandir front until the Supreme Court order is out." "May this government last longer. May the country prosper under the leadership of Narendra Modi but we will not accept anything other than proportional representation," he said. Clarifying about the controversy over JDU leader Prashant Kishor working for TMC leader Mamata Banerjee, Tyagi said, "IPAC has nothing to do with the JDU. Now, he is a doctor (pointing towards a leader sitting beside him). Should he stop giving prescriptions to Congress workers?" "We want BJP to win in West Bengal and the TMC to lose. Is Prashant Kishor going to seek votes? Why would the party have any objection against his works until or unless he doesn`t make a statement or does something against the JDU and NDA," he added.

JDU will remain a part of NDA, will fight 2020 Assembly polls under leadership of Nitish: KC Tyagi

Watch 'India Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on the world's biggest democratic nation's exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis.

India Watch; 05th June 2019

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah on Tuesday reprimanded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/giriraj-singh-modi-loyalist-who-wears-hindutva-on-his-sleeve-222886">Union Minister Giriraj Singh</a> for his remarks against NDA leaders on attending Iftar parties, news agency PTI reported.

The development follows Singh's remark wherein he had said that it would have been "beautiful" to see similar get-togethers and fruit feasts organised during the Navratras as well.

"How beautiful would the picture have emerged, had phalaahaar (a fruit feast) been organized during Navaratra with the same fervour with splendid photographs taken. Why do we lag behind in observance of our own karm-dharm (religious customs) in public, while staying ahead in making a show for those of others," Singh tweeted in Hindi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
कितनी खूबसूरत तस्वीर होती जब इतनी ही चाहत से नवरात्रि पे फलाहार का आयोजन करते और सुंदर सुदंर फ़ोटो आते??...अपने कर्म धर्म मे हम पिछड़ क्यों जाते और दिखावा में आगे रहते है??? <a href="https://t.co/dy7s1UgBgy">pic.twitter.com/dy7s1UgBgy</a>
— Shandilya Giriraj Singh (@girirajsinghbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/girirajsinghbjp/status/1135770253416206336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Singh's tweeted his comment along with pictures of Iftaar parties hosted in Patna, Bihar by Janata Dal (United), former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM and NDA ally Lok Janshakti Party which is headed by Ram Vilas Paswan.

In the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls, Singh retained Begusarai for the BJP and defeated CPI's Kanhaiya Kumar by a margin of over four lakh votes.

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah on Tuesday reprimanded Union Minister Giriraj Singh for his remarks against NDA leaders on attending Iftar parties, news agency PTI reported.

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah on Tuesday reprimanded Union Minister Giriraj Singh for his remarks against NDA leaders on attending Iftar parties, news agency PTI reported. The development follows Singh's remark wherein he had said that it would have been "beautiful" to see similar get-togethers and fruit feasts organised during the Navratras as well. "How beautiful would the picture have emerged, had phalaahaar (a fruit feast) been organized during Navaratra with the same fervour with splendid photographs taken. Why do we lag behind in observance of our own karm-dharm (religious customs) in public, while staying ahead in making a show for those of others," Singh tweeted in Hindi. कितनी खूबसूरत तस्वीर होती जब इतनी ही चाहत से नवरात्रि पे फलाहार का आयोजन करते और सुंदर सुदंर फ़ोटो आते??...अपने कर्म धर्म मे हम पिछड़ क्यों जाते और दिखावा में आगे रहते है??? pic.twitter.com/dy7s1UgBgy — Shandilya Giriraj Singh (@girirajsinghbjp) June 4, 2019 × Singh's tweeted his comment along with pictures of Iftaar parties hosted in Patna, Bihar by Janata Dal (United), former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM and NDA ally Lok Janshakti Party which is headed by Ram Vilas Paswan. In the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls, Singh retained Begusarai for the BJP and defeated CPI's Kanhaiya Kumar by a margin of over four lakh votes.

Amit Shah reprimands Union Minister Giriraj Singh for remarks on iftar parties

Here's look at new cabinet entrants in PM Narendra Modi's Council of Ministers. Watch this video to know more.

Here's look at new cabinet entrants in PM Narendra Modi's Council of Ministers

arendra Modi took oath as Prime Minister of India for the second successive time on Tuesday in a grand ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was joined by 24 cabinet-ranked ministers, 24 Ministers of State and another nine Ministers of State (Independent Charge). Watch this video to k now more.

PM Modi, 57 ministers take oath at Rashtrapati Bhavan

BJP president Amit Shah took oath at the much awaited swearing-in ceremony as a minster in Modi government's cabinet on Thursday. Watch this video to know more.

BJP chief Amit Shah joins Modi's cabinet 2.0

Putting all speculations to rest, BJP president Amit Shah took oath at the much awaited swearing-in ceremony as a minster in Modi government's cabinet on Thursday. However, the biggest surprise that PM Modi threw up was the inclusion of former foreign secretary S Jaishankar Prasad in cabinet. Watch this video to know more.

Amit Shah, S Jaishankar PM Narendra Modi's surprise pick

Nitish Kumar on Thursday confirmed even before the oath ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan that his party - Janata Dal United - won't be represented in Narendra Modi's new ministry. Watch this video to know more.

JDU not part of Narendra Modi ministry

Narendra Modi took oath of office and secrecy as Prime Minister for the second consecutive term, administered by President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. Watch this video to know more.

Watch: Highlights of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony

"Never asked for two seats, as reported in media. The government gave us a symbolic representation. We informed them that it is ok we don't need it. It is not a big issue, we are fully in NDA and not upset at all. We are working together,no confusion," says JDU chief Nitish Kumar. Watch this video to know more.

Nitish Kumar denies grudge against BJP over cabinet berths

The newly inducted Narendra Modi government will hold its first Cabinet meeting on Friday. According to reports, the cabinet meeting will be held around 5 PM on Friday. Watch this video to know more.

All-new Narendra Modi govt to hold its first Cabinet meet

In this segment of WION's India Votes, Watch How Exit Polls Predicts NDA's Big Win In Maharashtra In General Elections 2019. #GeneralElection2019 #IndiaVotes #LokSabhaElection2019 #ExitPolls2019

India Votes: Exit Polls 2019; Predicts NDA's Big Win In Maharashtra

In this segment of India Votes, Exclusively In conversation With BJP Leader Vani Tripathi Tikkoo. #GeneralElection2019 #IndiaVotes #LokSabhaElection2019 #ExitPolls2019

India Votes: Exclusively In Conversation With BJP Leader Vani Tripathi Tikkoo

In this segment of WION's India Votes, Know Ten Big Take-Aways Emerged From 'Exit Polls 2019' #GeneralElection2019 #IndiaVotes #LokSabhaElection2019 #ExitPolls2019

India Votes: Know Ten Big Take-Aways Emerged From 'Exit Polls 2019'

In this segment of WION's India Votes, Know How 'Exit Polls 2019' Come Out State-Wise. #GeneralElection2019 #IndiaVotes #LokSabhaElection2019 #ExitPolls2019

India Votes: Know How 'Exit Polls 2019' Come Out State-Wise

Jdu, News on Jdu, stories on Jdu, articles on Jdu, Jdu stories at Wion, Jdu news, Jdu latest news