<p>Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance). "Now I am back where I was before (in NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere," the CM assured BJP supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nitish Kumar hails from the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) party and after his last flip-flop, his now erstwhile government was supported by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Both parties were a part of the INDIA alliance, largely led by the opposition Congress party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nitish Kumar earlier submitted his resignation to the Bihar governor and snapped ties with RJD. Then he again staked a claim for the CM seat with the support of BJP, the second-largest party in the Bihar assembly.</p>

<h2><strong>Bihar Assembly seat composition</strong></h2>

<p>The Bihar Assembly boasts 243 members in total, where the RJD holds the largest ground with 79 MLAs.</p>

<p>The BJP has 78 MLAs&nbsp;</p>

<p>The JD(U) has 45 MLAs</p>

<p>The CPI(M-L)(L) has 12 MLAs</p>

<p>The Congress has 19 MLAs</p>

<p>The HAM (S) has 4 MLAs</p>

<p>The AIMIM has 1 MLA</p>

<p>The CPI(M) has 2 MLAs</p>

<p>The CPI has 2 MLAs</p>

<p>There's one Independent MLA</p>

<p>A political party or alliance needs the support of at least 122 members (more than half) to form the government. The ruling&nbsp;<em>Mahagathbandhan&nbsp;</em>(literally translated as Great Alliance) had 159 MLAs in total, which JDU was a part of.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0JnykUT7TBAuvxBX1hhk_e" data-ved="2ahUKEwihjYucoICEAxUla2wGHfaUByQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bihars-nitish-kumar-ends-his-18-month-long-alliance-with-rjd-congress-to-join-bjp-684558" jsname="YKoRaf">Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD &amp; Congress to join BJP</a></strong></p>

<p>Since JDU has now joined hands with BJP, both of them have 123 MLAs in total, just one above the halfway mark. Moreover, the NDA is also backed by the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM [S]), which has 4 MLAs. This puts the NDA government in Bihar in a comfortable position.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP</strong></p>

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<p>On the other hand, the opposition&nbsp;<em>Mahagathbandhan</em>&nbsp;is left with just 114 MLAs, which is eight short of the halfway mark.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nitish Kumar attacks&nbsp;<em>Mahagathbandhan</em></strong></h2>

<p>After taking oath for the record ninth time, Nitish Kumar took on&nbsp;the&nbsp;<em>Mahagathbandhan</em>&nbsp;and said the alliance was “not alright” and became so messed up that he had to quit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have not been commenting about anything for long now because things were not right (in the <em>Mahagathbandhan</em>). I was getting opinions and suggestions from everyone, including my party workers. I listened to all of them and resigned today, and ended the current government,” CM Kumar said to reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance).

Nitish Kumar took oath as the chief minister of Bihar for a record ninth time on Sunday (Jan 28), flipping from the opposition INDIA alliance to the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance). "Now I am back where I was before (in NDA) and now there is no question of going anywhere," the CM assured BJP supporters. Nitish Kumar hails from the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) party and after his last flip-flop, his now erstwhile government was supported by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Both parties were a part of the INDIA alliance, largely led by the opposition Congress party. Nitish Kumar earlier submitted his resignation to the Bihar governor and snapped ties with RJD. Then he again staked a claim for the CM seat with the support of BJP, the second-largest party in the Bihar assembly. Bihar Assembly seat composition The Bihar Assembly boasts 243 members in total, where the RJD holds the largest ground with 79 MLAs. The BJP has 78 MLAs The JD(U) has 45 MLAs The CPI(M-L)(L) has 12 MLAs The Congress has 19 MLAs The HAM (S) has 4 MLAs The AIMIM has 1 MLA The CPI(M) has 2 MLAs The CPI has 2 MLAs There's one Independent MLA A political party or alliance needs the support of at least 122 members (more than half) to form the government. The ruling Mahagathbandhan (literally translated as Great Alliance) had 159 MLAs in total, which JDU was a part of. Also read: Bihar's Nitish Kumar ends his 18-month-long alliance with RJD & Congress to join BJP Since JDU has now joined hands with BJP, both of them have 123 MLAs in total, just one above the halfway mark. Moreover, the NDA is also backed by the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM [S]), which has 4 MLAs. This puts the NDA government in Bihar in a comfortable position. Watch: Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP × On the other hand, the opposition Mahagathbandhan is left with just 114 MLAs, which is eight short of the halfway mark. Nitish Kumar attacks Mahagathbandhan After taking oath for the record ninth time, Nitish Kumar took on the Mahagathbandhan and said the alliance was “not alright” and became so messed up that he had to quit. "I have not been commenting about anything for long now because things were not right (in the Mahagathbandhan). I was getting opinions and suggestions from everyone, including my party workers. I listened to all of them and resigned today, and ended the current government,” CM Kumar said to reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Assembly in numbers: NDA now backed by 127 MLAs as ‘Mahagathbandhan’ collapses

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

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.

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

<p lang="en-US">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.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>RJD's Tejashwi Yadav says 'game yet to begin'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">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."<br />
<br />
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....”</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p lang="en-US">As per media reports, Tejashwi Yadav also hinted at other unexpected developments in the state.<br />
<br />
"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.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Congress tries to avert crisis</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">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.<br />
<br />
"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.<br />
<br />
"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.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;The saga of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's many U-turns</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">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.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>JD(U) leader KC Tyagi says Nitish '</strong>misunderstood<strong>'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">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.<br />
<br />
"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.<br />
<br />
"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".<br />
<br />
"Kumar never hankered after a position in the alliance but a section of the Congress leadership repeatedly insulted him," Tyagi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

Amidst tensions within India, Bihar's ruling alliance between the Janata Dal United (JDU) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), sources informed India Today that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may once again align with the BJP to establish a new government in the eastern state. A decision on this matter is expected within the next two to three days, as per the sources.

India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP?

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

<p>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).</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Nitish Kumar to join hands with BJP?</strong></p>

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<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>How does Nitish on BJP's side harm 'I.N.D.I.A' politically?</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Administrative rejig ahead of likely change of guard in Patna</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Shirsat Kapil Ashok, a 2011-batch IAS officer currently serving as Inspector General (prisons), will take over as the new Patna DM.</p>

<p>The Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) witnessed changes as well, with 45 officers receiving new postings.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

In what could be another setback for the opposition's I.N.D.I.A bloc ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is gearing up to part ways with the much-anticipated 28-party alliance.

Reports: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to leave opposition's I.N.D.I.A alliance

<p>Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar might be pivoting towards the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), if the chatter coming from the eastern state is to be believed. The&nbsp;Janata Dal United (JDU) chief is miffed with the opposition INDIA bloc, especially the Congress Party for being indecisive in the seat-sharing arrangement in other states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to multiple media reports, Kumar is of the view that the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' started by Rahul Gandhi will only benefit Congress and not the INDIA bloc. Previously, reports claimed that Kumar was also not happy with the bloc not projecting him as the PM face.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, there are murmurs that all is not well within the alliance with Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) at the state level. Kumar took a subtle dig at Lalu Yadav's party by calling out dynastic&nbsp;politics during an event linked to Karpoori Thankur, the new Bharat Ratna recipient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Kumar's comment, Lalu's daughter Rohini Acharya wrote a Hindi couplet, allegedly taking a dig at the chief minister.</p>

<p>"Those who claim to be socialist change their ideology like wind; what is the point when the problem is with self. There is no reason to get dejected as the inevitable will happen. Often some people are unable to see their own deficiencies but throw mud at others," her post read.</p>

<p>Consequently, both Kumar and the state’s deputy chief minister (and Lalu Prasad’s son) Tejashwi Yadav held separate meetings on Thursday (Jan 25) to perhaps chart the road ahead when the allies part ways.</p>

<p>If Kumar does return to the NDA fold, it won't be the first time he has flipped on his stance. In 2013, before Narendra Modi was announced as the PM candidate, an angry Kumar left the alliance, only to return in 2017 before breaking up again in 2022.</p>

<p>According to&nbsp;reports, Kumar is planning to go public with the BJP in the next few days, with some claiming that the oath-taking ceremony will take place on January 28. BJP leader Sushil Modi is expected to take oath as the&nbsp;deputy CM.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-mamata-banerjee-proposes-congress-chief-mallikarjun-kharge-as-pm-face-of-india-bloc-671575"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India: Mamata Banerjee proposes Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge as PM face of INDIA bloc</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>INDIA bloc shaking</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, the Mamata-led Trinamool Congress (TMC), a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.</p>

<p>"I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-tmcs-solo-act-in-bengal-shake-india-alliance-mamata-says-will-fight-on-all-42-seats-alone-683142"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone'</strong></a></p>

<p>The INDIA bloc had been forged after much effort to thwart the winning run of the BJP at the Centre. However, with TMC not honouring the alliance's dogma and JDU looking to move on, it appears highly unlikely that the opposition bloc will survive the aftermath.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar might be pivoting towards the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), if the chatter coming from the eastern state is to be believed.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar might be pivoting towards the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), if the chatter coming from the eastern state is to be believed. The Janata Dal United (JDU) chief is miffed with the opposition INDIA bloc, especially the Congress Party for being indecisive in the seat-sharing arrangement in other states. According to multiple media reports, Kumar is of the view that the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' started by Rahul Gandhi will only benefit Congress and not the INDIA bloc. Previously, reports claimed that Kumar was also not happy with the bloc not projecting him as the PM face. Additionally, there are murmurs that all is not well within the alliance with Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) at the state level. Kumar took a subtle dig at Lalu Yadav's party by calling out dynastic politics during an event linked to Karpoori Thankur, the new Bharat Ratna recipient. After Kumar's comment, Lalu's daughter Rohini Acharya wrote a Hindi couplet, allegedly taking a dig at the chief minister. "Those who claim to be socialist change their ideology like wind; what is the point when the problem is with self. There is no reason to get dejected as the inevitable will happen. Often some people are unable to see their own deficiencies but throw mud at others," her post read. Consequently, both Kumar and the state’s deputy chief minister (and Lalu Prasad’s son) Tejashwi Yadav held separate meetings on Thursday (Jan 25) to perhaps chart the road ahead when the allies part ways. If Kumar does return to the NDA fold, it won't be the first time he has flipped on his stance. In 2013, before Narendra Modi was announced as the PM candidate, an angry Kumar left the alliance, only to return in 2017 before breaking up again in 2022. According to reports, Kumar is planning to go public with the BJP in the next few days, with some claiming that the oath-taking ceremony will take place on January 28. BJP leader Sushil Modi is expected to take oath as the deputy CM. Watch | India: Mamata Banerjee proposes Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge as PM face of INDIA bloc × INDIA bloc shaking Earlier this week, the Mamata-led Trinamool Congress (TMC), a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections. "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP." Also read | Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone' The INDIA bloc had been forged after much effort to thwart the winning run of the BJP at the Centre. However, with TMC not honouring the alliance's dogma and JDU looking to move on, it appears highly unlikely that the opposition bloc will survive the aftermath. (With inputs from agencies)

Trouble in INDIA paradise? Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may return to BJP-led NDA fold: Reports

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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p><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></p>

<h2><strong>Bhagidari Nyay and caste census</strong></h2>

<p>Ramesh stated that Bhagidari Nyay, one of the pillars of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, requires a nationwide caste census as a foundational step.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Immediate halt on Lucknow-Ayodhya bus service</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Nitish Kumar's acknowledgment</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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’

Ahead of the 2024 general elections in India, the unity efforts of the opposition I.N.D.I.A. Alliance seem to be already coming under strain. The challenges became evident at a recent meeting of the bloc in New Delhi, when the Chief Minister of the state of Bihar Nitish Kumar lost his cool with DMK leader T.R. Baalu who asked for an English translation of his Hindi speech.

Crucial I.N.D.I.A alliance meet: Will Nitish Kumar break the unity of INDIA grouping? | World DNA

<p>As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance. The appointment was finalised during a virtual summit attended by the leaders of 14 Opposition parties constituting the alliance. The primary agenda of the meeting revolved around discussions on seat allocation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>Notably, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was given the role of the convener but he refused it. He reportedly said that he would want someone from the Congress party to take up the convener's post. Also, Kumar was quoted as saying that he would only accept the role once all the parties were in consensus on the decision.</p>

<p>This comes as Janata Dal (United) had been exerting pressure within the coalition for Nitish Kumar's appointment as the convener. Interestingly, the TMC chief, Mamata Banerjee, opted to abstain from the meeting.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-consecration-ceremony-is-momentous-occasion-top-mauritius-minister-tells-wion-679558">‘Ram temple consecration ceremony is momentous occasion,’ top Mauritius minister tells WION</a></p>

<p>INDIA, an acronym for 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance,' comprises various opposition parties, with the Congress being a prominent member.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-guwahati-bound-indigo-flight-ends-up-in-dhaka-after-emergency-landing-heres-why-679545">India: Guwahati-bound Indigo flight ends up in Dhaka after emergency landing. Here's why</a></p>

<p>The coalition was formed by the opposition parties to challenge the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the helm at&nbsp;the centre. The INDIA alliance wants to thwart NDA's bid for a third consecutive term in the 2024 elections where in 543 members of the lower house of Parliament will be elected by the people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections this year, media reports citing sources have revealed that the INDIA bloc will not present a common manifesto and instead, each party within the alliance will articulate its own manifesto.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, the said sources also revealed that the bloc will collaborate on a shared agenda.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-tech-sector-outlook-for-2024-679567">Indian Tech sector outlook for 2024</a></strong></p>

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<p>Seat-sharing talks earlier saw a deadlock. TMC did not join the latest INDIA&nbsp;alliance meeting. A leader of the party previously stated that the reason for not indulging in seat-sharing is the "Congress' impractical demand for eight to 10 seats in West Bengal, considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had dwindled to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance.

As India gears up for its national elections scheduled between April and May 2024, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has been designated as the chairperson of the Opposition's INDIA alliance. The appointment was finalised during a virtual summit attended by the leaders of 14 Opposition parties constituting the alliance. The primary agenda of the meeting revolved around discussions on seat allocation for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls. Notably, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was given the role of the convener but he refused it. He reportedly said that he would want someone from the Congress party to take up the convener's post. Also, Kumar was quoted as saying that he would only accept the role once all the parties were in consensus on the decision. This comes as Janata Dal (United) had been exerting pressure within the coalition for Nitish Kumar's appointment as the convener. Interestingly, the TMC chief, Mamata Banerjee, opted to abstain from the meeting. Also Read | ‘Ram temple consecration ceremony is momentous occasion,’ top Mauritius minister tells WION INDIA, an acronym for 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance,' comprises various opposition parties, with the Congress being a prominent member. Also Read | India: Guwahati-bound Indigo flight ends up in Dhaka after emergency landing. Here's why The coalition was formed by the opposition parties to challenge the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the helm at the centre. The INDIA alliance wants to thwart NDA's bid for a third consecutive term in the 2024 elections where in 543 members of the lower house of Parliament will be elected by the people. In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections this year, media reports citing sources have revealed that the INDIA bloc will not present a common manifesto and instead, each party within the alliance will articulate its own manifesto. Nevertheless, the said sources also revealed that the bloc will collaborate on a shared agenda. Watch | Indian Tech sector outlook for 2024 × Seat-sharing talks earlier saw a deadlock. TMC did not join the latest INDIA alliance meeting. A leader of the party previously stated that the reason for not indulging in seat-sharing is the "Congress' impractical demand for eight to 10 seats in West Bengal, considering that the vote share of the country's oldest national party had dwindled to just three per cent in the 2021 state Assembly polls." (With inputs from agencies)

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge appointed INDIA bloc chairperson, Nitish rejects convener’s post

Ahead of the 2024 General elections in India, the unity efforts of the opposition I.N.D.I.A. Alliance seem to be already coming under strain. The challenges became evident at a recent meeting of the bloc in New Delhi, when the Chief Minister of the state of Bihar Nitish Kumar lost his cool with DMK leader T.R. Baalu who asked for an English translation of his Hindi speech.

I.N.D.I.A Groupings meet: Will Nitish Kumar break unity of opposition alliance?

<p>Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of the east Indian state of Bihar, was&nbsp;elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) during the party's national executive meeting on Friday, (Dec 29).</p>

<p>During the meeting,&nbsp;party members commended Kumar's efforts in uniting opposition parties and advocating for a caste census. Kumar's name was proposed by Lalan Singh, who has stepped down as the president of the party.</p>

<h2><strong>'Nitish's leadership required'</strong></h2>

<p>Stepping down, Lalan Singh, as per a PTI report, emphasised the need for Nitish Kumar's leadership in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>The decision that was taken in the executive meeting will be ratified at the party's national council meeting later in the day.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-security-breach-police-hunts-for-cyclist-cobbler-who-modified-shoes-of-accused-674665">Indian Parliament security breach: Police hunt for 'cyclist cobbler' who modified shoes of accused</a></strong></p>

<p>Quoting sources, PTI reported that most key leaders within the Janata Dal (United) party were of the view that Kumar, being its most prominent face, should take charge of the organisation at this crucial juncture.</p>

<p>The party is also part of the new opposition INDIA bloc.</p>

<p>Among other things, the meeting discussed how under his leadership&nbsp;reservations increased from 60 per cent to 75 per cent following the caste survey in the state. The decision to enhance reservation now has the support of other parties, it noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fully-embellished-indian-minister-rebuts-report-on-centre-allegedly-targeting-apple-674704">'Fully embellished': Indian minister rebuts report on Centre allegedly targeting Apple</a></strong></p>

<p>Kumar, despite expressing a lack of personal interest in becoming the party president, received widespread endorsement from the national executive members. He said that he would ensure senior members of the party are given different roles.</p>

<p>Amid reports of a perceived rift within the party, and Singh's leadership style facing criticism from some party leaders, Kumar worked to present a united front. He also dismissed suggestions that Singh's proximity to the RJD was a reason for his departure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh too dismissed the rumours and said: "You are trying to set the narrative… JD(U) is one and will remain united."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of the east Indian state of Bihar, was elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) during the party's national executive meeting on Friday, (Dec 29).

Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of the east Indian state of Bihar, was elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) during the party's national executive meeting on Friday, (Dec 29). During the meeting, party members commended Kumar's efforts in uniting opposition parties and advocating for a caste census. Kumar's name was proposed by Lalan Singh, who has stepped down as the president of the party. 'Nitish's leadership required' Stepping down, Lalan Singh, as per a PTI report, emphasised the need for Nitish Kumar's leadership in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The decision that was taken in the executive meeting will be ratified at the party's national council meeting later in the day. Also read | Indian Parliament security breach: Police hunt for 'cyclist cobbler' who modified shoes of accused Quoting sources, PTI reported that most key leaders within the Janata Dal (United) party were of the view that Kumar, being its most prominent face, should take charge of the organisation at this crucial juncture. The party is also part of the new opposition INDIA bloc. Among other things, the meeting discussed how under his leadership reservations increased from 60 per cent to 75 per cent following the caste survey in the state. The decision to enhance reservation now has the support of other parties, it noted. Also read | 'Fully embellished': Indian minister rebuts report on Centre allegedly targeting Apple Kumar, despite expressing a lack of personal interest in becoming the party president, received widespread endorsement from the national executive members. He said that he would ensure senior members of the party are given different roles. Amid reports of a perceived rift within the party, and Singh's leadership style facing criticism from some party leaders, Kumar worked to present a united front. He also dismissed suggestions that Singh's proximity to the RJD was a reason for his departure. Singh too dismissed the rumours and said: "You are trying to set the narrative… JD(U) is one and will remain united." (With inputs from agencies)

India: Nitish Kumar elected as president of Janata Dal (United) party

<p>Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar appeared to lose his cool during a meeting of the INDIA bloc on Tuesday (Dec 20). During the meeting,&nbsp;Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader TR&nbsp;Baalu requested a translation of Kumar's speech which was delivered in Hindi which seemingly irked the veteran leader, according to multiple reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A visibly agitated Kumar told Baalu that he should learn Hindu because "Hindi is a national language", leaving both sets of supporters puzzled. The tirade by Kumar continued for the next few minutes as he launched into the details of the Indian freedom struggle against the British and English imposition.</p>

<p>"Hindi is the national language of our country, which we name Hindustan. The language ought to be familiar to us."</p>

<p>Notably, in the last three meetings of the opposition bloc,&nbsp;Rashtriya Janata Dal Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha&nbsp;played the translator’s role, conveying in English the speeches of both&nbsp;Kumar and his own party patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav.</p>

<p>However, on Tuesday, before Jha could don the translator's hat, Kumar snapped and gave his piece of mind to the DMK leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Kumar was embroiled in another controversy when he addressed the Bihar legislative assembly and in a rather crude manner, delivered a vulgar sex education speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-opposition-leader-nitish-kumars-bizarre-speech-656300"><strong>Watch | Indian opposition leader Nitish Kumar's bizarre speech</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Fissures within the bloc?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident once again showed the fissures that may have emerged within the newly minted&nbsp;INDIA bloc that wants to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling NDA government in the general elections next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bihar CM hasn't been enthused by the progress the opposition has made under the bloc either. He was seemingly missing from the joint presser of the bloc when Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge was floated as the prime minister face for the upcoming general elections.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-faces-flak-for-sex-talks-in-assembly-656282"><strong>Also read | India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly</strong></a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Kumar has harboured PM hopes for a long time. He severed ties with NDA, prior to the 2014 elections when Modi was named the PM face. At the time, Kumar was seemingly at the peak of his political career and wanted to utilise it to further his PM dream. However, the opportunity never arrived and Kumar remained chained to the state politics.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar appeared to lose his cool during a meeting of the INDIA bloc on Tuesday (Dec 20). During the meeting, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader TR Baalu requested a translation of Kumar's speech which was delivered in Hindi which seemingly irked the veteran leader, according to multiple reports.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar appeared to lose his cool during a meeting of the INDIA bloc on Tuesday (Dec 20). During the meeting, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader TR Baalu requested a translation of Kumar's speech which was delivered in Hindi which seemingly irked the veteran leader, according to multiple reports. A visibly agitated Kumar told Baalu that he should learn Hindu because "Hindi is a national language", leaving both sets of supporters puzzled. The tirade by Kumar continued for the next few minutes as he launched into the details of the Indian freedom struggle against the British and English imposition. "Hindi is the national language of our country, which we name Hindustan. The language ought to be familiar to us." Notably, in the last three meetings of the opposition bloc, Rashtriya Janata Dal Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha played the translator’s role, conveying in English the speeches of both Kumar and his own party patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav. However, on Tuesday, before Jha could don the translator's hat, Kumar snapped and gave his piece of mind to the DMK leader. Last month, Kumar was embroiled in another controversy when he addressed the Bihar legislative assembly and in a rather crude manner, delivered a vulgar sex education speech. Watch | Indian opposition leader Nitish Kumar's bizarre speech × Fissures within the bloc? The incident once again showed the fissures that may have emerged within the newly minted INDIA bloc that wants to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling NDA government in the general elections next year. The Bihar CM hasn't been enthused by the progress the opposition has made under the bloc either. He was seemingly missing from the joint presser of the bloc when Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge was floated as the prime minister face for the upcoming general elections. Also read | India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly Notably, Kumar has harboured PM hopes for a long time. He severed ties with NDA, prior to the 2014 elections when Modi was named the PM face. At the time, Kumar was seemingly at the peak of his political career and wanted to utilise it to further his PM dream. However, the opportunity never arrived and Kumar remained chained to the state politics. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar loses it when DMK leader asks for English translation of his speech

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar snaps at DMK leader over Hindi speech | Race to Power

Bihar's CM Nitish Kumar is looking to review alcohol ban policy of Bihar. Kumar claims move validated by 2018 survey showing positive outcomes.

Nitish Kumar to rethink liquor prohibition, fresh survey to study imapct of ban

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Nov 8) reacted sharply to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's remarks on population control in the state assembly, stating that the INDIA bloc's leader has insulted the country before the entire world. The prime minister did not take the name of the chief minister and added that no INDIA alliance leader has criticised his derogatory comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He has no shame...will they stoop so low,” stated the prime minister, while speaking at a political rally in Madhya Pradesh's Guna.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-faces-flak-for-sex-talks-in-assembly-656282">India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly</a></p>

<p>“A politician who is acting as the flag bearer of the INDIA alliance and is playing several games to uproot the current central government; this leader said something unimaginable inside the assembly in front of women politicians. He made obscene remarks. Koi sharm nahi hai unko (He has no shame). Not even a single leader of the INDIA alliance was ready to say even one word against this insult to women. Those who keep such views about women, can they do any good for you? Can they save your honour?” Modi stated.</p>

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<p>"How low will you stoop? You are defaming India before the world. Mothers and sisters, to ensure your honour, I will do whatever I can," the prime minister stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Chief Minister Nitish Kumar apologises&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Kumar apologised for the "derogatory" comments. "I apologise and I take back my words. If my words were wrong, I apologise. If anyone got hurt, I take them back. (My words) were not intended to hurt anybody. I have always maintained education is necessary for population control. I have also stood for women empowerment and women's development," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "I take my words back, " says Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as opposition leaders protest inside Bihar Assembly <a href="https://t.co/VbgolqAhYr">pic.twitter.com/VbgolqAhYr</a></p>
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<p>The statement of the chief minister was defended by Bihar's former chief minister Rabri Devi who stated that he mistakenly made the remarks and has apologised for it already. "The chief minister was explaining the caste census. It was a slip of his tongue for which he already apologised. What is the need for this uproar? The Assembly should proceed," Rabri Debi stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian opposition leader Nitish Kumar's bizarre speech</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-opposition-leader-nitish-kumars-bizarre-speech-656300/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>A complaint has been filed in a Bihar court&nbsp;against CM Nitish Kumar over his explicit remarks in which he elaborated on how education helps women in birth control. Lawyer Anil Kumar Singh filed the complaint and the matter's hearing has been scheduled on November 25.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Nov 8) reacted sharply to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's remarks on population control in the state assembly, stating that the INDIA bloc's leader has insulted the country before the entire world.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Nov 8) reacted sharply to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's remarks on population control in the state assembly, stating that the INDIA bloc's leader has insulted the country before the entire world. The prime minister did not take the name of the chief minister and added that no INDIA alliance leader has criticised his derogatory comments. “He has no shame...will they stoop so low,” stated the prime minister, while speaking at a political rally in Madhya Pradesh's Guna. ALSO READ | India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly “A politician who is acting as the flag bearer of the INDIA alliance and is playing several games to uproot the current central government; this leader said something unimaginable inside the assembly in front of women politicians. He made obscene remarks. Koi sharm nahi hai unko (He has no shame). Not even a single leader of the INDIA alliance was ready to say even one word against this insult to women. Those who keep such views about women, can they do any good for you? Can they save your honour?” Modi stated. #WATCH | Guna, Madhya Pradesh: On Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's statement, PM Narendra Modi says, "A big leader of the INDI alliance, 'Ghamandiya Gathbandhan' used indecent language for women inside Assembly yesterday. They are not ashamed. No leader of the INDI alliance said a single… pic.twitter.com/nUbYRqJFa7 — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2023 × "How low will you stoop? You are defaming India before the world. Mothers and sisters, to ensure your honour, I will do whatever I can," the prime minister stated. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar apologises Meanwhile, Kumar apologised for the "derogatory" comments. "I apologise and I take back my words. If my words were wrong, I apologise. If anyone got hurt, I take them back. (My words) were not intended to hurt anybody. I have always maintained education is necessary for population control. I have also stood for women empowerment and women's development," he said. #WATCH | "I take my words back, " says Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as opposition leaders protest inside Bihar Assembly pic.twitter.com/VbgolqAhYr — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2023 × The statement of the chief minister was defended by Bihar's former chief minister Rabri Devi who stated that he mistakenly made the remarks and has apologised for it already. "The chief minister was explaining the caste census. It was a slip of his tongue for which he already apologised. What is the need for this uproar? The Assembly should proceed," Rabri Debi stated. WATCH | Indian opposition leader Nitish Kumar's bizarre speech A complaint has been filed in a Bihar court against CM Nitish Kumar over his explicit remarks in which he elaborated on how education helps women in birth control. Lawyer Anil Kumar Singh filed the complaint and the matter's hearing has been scheduled on November 25. (With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar sex remarks: PM Modi says CM has ‘no shame’ even as latter takes his words back

Bihar cabinet cleared quota hike. The move started a political slugfest. A proposal has been passed to raise the Reservation quota for SCs, STs, OBCs and EWS .The quota has been increased to a total of 75% from the existing 50% .

Bihar cabinet approves to hike reservation quota to 75%

<p>The explanation of the Indian state of Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on how education played a pivotal role in guiding women in population control included some bizarre and crass statements, leading to huge criticism of the leader as the video of his speech went viral on social media.<br />
<br />
The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) sharply reacted to Kumar's comments, calling them an “attack on the dignity of women”. The chairman of the National Commission for Women said that the remarks were “crass”.<br />
<br />
Nitish Kumar was addressing the Bihar legislative assembly amid the tabling of the caste census report. The chief minister, in his address, stated that an educated woman is able to prevent pregnancy after sex which keeps the population growth in check.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-govt-to-consider-scs-remarks-over-odd-even-rule-after-latter-calls-it-mere-optics-656170">Delhi govt to consider SC’s remarks over odd-even rule, after latter calls it ‘mere optics’</a></p>

<p>After his remarks on women's awareness regarding contraception, the NCW chairperson said, “NCW on behalf of every woman in this country demands an immediate and unequivocal apology from the CM. His crass remarks in the Vidhan Sabha are an affront to the dignity and respect that every woman deserves. Such derogatory and cheap language used during his speech is a dark stain on our society. If a leader can make such comments so openly in a democracy, one can only imagine the horror the state must be enduring under his leadership. We stand firm against such behaviour and call for accountability.”<br />
<br />
However, Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Prasad Yadav came in defence of Nitish, and said, “One must not take it in the wrong sense. People are sometimes embarrassed talking about it but sex education is taught in schools. It’s biology, children study it. He was talking about population control, people should not misinterpret it.”<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Minister of State Ashwini Kr Choubey, taking to X, said that “no parliamentary member has ever used such language”, and the chief minister should “resign” and apologise to the entire nation.</p>

<h2><strong>CM demands 65 per cent rise in caste quotas in Bihar</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar proposed to increase reservation to 65 per cent in educational institutions and government jobs for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, along with Other Backward Classes and Extremely Backward Classes.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India five-state electoral battle | Assembly elections begin in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-five-state-electoral-battle-assembly-elections-begin-in-mizoram-chhattisgarh-wion-656063/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This does not include the 10 per cent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections by the centre, and if added will take the total reservation quota to 75 per cent.<br />
<br />
The proposal tabled, if passed, will take reservation quotas beyond the Supreme Court's 50 per cent cap set in 1992.<br />
<br />
"We will do the needful after due consultation. It is our intent to effect these changes in the current session," stated the chief minister. He added that they plan to scrap the three per cent quota for OBC women.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The explanation of the Indian state of Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on how education played a pivotal role in guiding women in population control included some bizarre and crass statements, leading to huge criticism of the leader as the video of his speech went viral on social media.

The explanation of the Indian state of Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on how education played a pivotal role in guiding women in population control included some bizarre and crass statements, leading to huge criticism of the leader as the video of his speech went viral on social media. The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) sharply reacted to Kumar's comments, calling them an “attack on the dignity of women”. The chairman of the National Commission for Women said that the remarks were “crass”. Nitish Kumar was addressing the Bihar legislative assembly amid the tabling of the caste census report. The chief minister, in his address, stated that an educated woman is able to prevent pregnancy after sex which keeps the population growth in check. ALSO READ | Delhi govt to consider SC’s remarks over odd-even rule, after latter calls it ‘mere optics’ After his remarks on women's awareness regarding contraception, the NCW chairperson said, “NCW on behalf of every woman in this country demands an immediate and unequivocal apology from the CM. His crass remarks in the Vidhan Sabha are an affront to the dignity and respect that every woman deserves. Such derogatory and cheap language used during his speech is a dark stain on our society. If a leader can make such comments so openly in a democracy, one can only imagine the horror the state must be enduring under his leadership. We stand firm against such behaviour and call for accountability.” However, Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Prasad Yadav came in defence of Nitish, and said, “One must not take it in the wrong sense. People are sometimes embarrassed talking about it but sex education is taught in schools. It’s biology, children study it. He was talking about population control, people should not misinterpret it.” Meanwhile, Minister of State Ashwini Kr Choubey, taking to X, said that “no parliamentary member has ever used such language”, and the chief minister should “resign” and apologise to the entire nation. CM demands 65 per cent rise in caste quotas in Bihar Meanwhile, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar proposed to increase reservation to 65 per cent in educational institutions and government jobs for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, along with Other Backward Classes and Extremely Backward Classes. WATCH | India five-state electoral battle | Assembly elections begin in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh This does not include the 10 per cent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections by the centre, and if added will take the total reservation quota to 75 per cent. The proposal tabled, if passed, will take reservation quotas beyond the Supreme Court's 50 per cent cap set in 1992. "We will do the needful after due consultation. It is our intent to effect these changes in the current session," stated the chief minister. He added that they plan to scrap the three per cent quota for OBC women. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faces flak for bizarre sex talk in assembly

<p dir="ltr">The results of a caste survey by the government of Bihar have been made public. More than 63 per cent of the east Indian state's population belongs to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs), as per the data. How significant is this data for the state and national politics?</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Bihar legislature unanimously approved a resolution on the caste-based survey, said the state's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The survey took into account a person's economic situation in addition to their caste, which will help build new policies and programmes for the advancement of all classes.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr">Caste Census: A contentious issue</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Data on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes were published following every independent India census from 1951 to 2011, but no information on other castes. Before that, caste information was included in every Census up until 1931.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Caste-based data, however, was gathered but not released in 1941. There would not have been an all-India caste table, according to MWM&nbsp;Yeats, the census commissioner at the time.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The contention was that the time has passed for this large, expensive table to be a part of the main project.</p>

<p dir="ltr">As a result, there is now no accurate estimate for the population of OBCs, different groupings within the OBCs, and other disadvantaged groups.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>What is the caste survey in Bihar?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The caste survey results were made public by the Bihar government on Monday (Oct 2).&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The national census, which was intended to be performed in 2021 but has yet to begin, was only going to include members of the scheduled castes (SCs) and scheduled tribes (STs), but the Nitish government decided to survey on its own last year.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Bihar assembly had unanimously approved the caste survey idea twice, first in 2019 and once in 2020. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister from the Janata Dal United (JD-U) party, was working with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the time, which now sits in the Opposition.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The state administration began the survey procedure this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">In the interim, Nitish severed connections with the BJP and established a coalition government with erstwhile enemy the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and others in what is known as the "Mahagatbandhan" (Grand Alliance) to rule the state.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Grand Alliance is part of a 28-party national opposition alliance, INDIA, which aims to unseat Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the general elections of 2024.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The caste census got off to a rocky start in January and was put on hold by the Patna High Court due to petitions opposing it. However, once the courts approved the exercise in August and dismissed the pleas, the exercise was continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The exercise was funded with Rs 1 billion by the Nitish government last year, and the deadline was set for February 2023. However, the exercise started in January instead of February, and the results were released nine months later than expected.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Although it is officially referred to as a "caste survey," in all actuality, it is a census because the exercise tallied the state's population and recorded it according to the caste identification of the people enumerated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>The Bihar caste survey's results</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">According to the Bihar caste survey, the 'backward communities' make up about 63 per cent of the state's population.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Out of Bihar's estimated population of 130 million<strong>,</strong>&nbsp; the largest group is the extremely backward classes (EBCs), which make up about 36 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">With roughly 27.13 per cent, the other backward classes (OBCs) come in second.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">According to the caste study, the Yadavas, an OBC group that includes the family of former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, make up the largest social group in the state with a 14.27 per cent share of the population. The Janata Dal-United (JD-U) of Nitish is in coalition with the RJD, and Tejashwi, the son of Lalu, is the deputy chief minister of Bihar.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">According to the caste study, scheduled castes (SCs), also known as Dalits, make up 19.65 per cent of the state's population, and scheduled tribes (STs) make up roughly 1.68 per cent of the population of Bihar.</p>

<p dir="ltr">About 15.52 per cent of the people in the state fall under the "unreserved category," often known as the "general" category. This group is referred to as the "upper castes" in general.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>The caste survey's sociopolitical importance</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The demand for adequate representation of historically underrepresented communities in public institutions and politics is linked to the call for the caste survey.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Currently, there is a 15 per cent reservation for scheduled castes (SCs) in government employment and higher education, a 7 per cent reservation for scheduled tribes (STs), and a 22 per cent reservation for other backward classes (OBCs).&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Political parties make their estimates in states and for Lok Sabha and Assembly seats during elections. The Mandal Commission put the OBC population at 52 per cent; other estimates have been based on data from the National Sample Survey.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The question arises, is this a political motive? If yes, then who shall benefit from it? To understand the nuances, Wion spoke to Dr. Sajjan Kumar, political analyst, and researcher.</p>

<p dir="ltr">“An updated caste data is required not because to promote caste system but for proper implementation of the government schemes. So, it should have been done way before, as caste is a reality," he said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"The problem comes with how you utilise the data, What are the intentions?&nbsp; there lies the policy and politics."</p>

<p dir="ltr">Kumar noted that there are different ways of reading the data.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The EBCs&nbsp;constitute the majority, he pointed out, adding that the opposition party will try to make it upper-class versus the OBCs "but it may also snowball into dominant OBCS, the middle-class OBCs, and the extremely backward class OBCs."</p>

<p dir="ltr">There has been no significant representation of the EBCs in the last 33 years, Kumar pointed out.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Since 1990, Bihar has been ruled by an OBC politician. Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Nitish Kumar belong to Yadav and Kurmis. Then what about EBCs? What is their credential?</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Now the BJP may use this data to play against the Yadav and Kurmis for OBCs and the EBCs because in terms of representation. The BJP gets votes from the weaker OBCs and EBCs,” he added.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-led-to-kevin-mccarthys-exit-and-what-happens-next-642314">Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit and what happens next?</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">The most intriguing part is that caste numbers has been released but not the socio-economic data.</p>

<p dir="ltr">And that is something that tells you why there is a hesitation.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/55-chinese-sailors-die-of-poisoning-asphyxiation-in-catastrophic-nuclear-submarine-accident-642315">55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning in catastrophic nuclear submarine accident</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">If there are 85 per cent of weaker communities, why has the Bihar government not released the socio-economic data associated with it?</p>

<p dir="ltr">Kumar said, “Since the 1970s, the pattern in Bihar has been the upper class, who were the major land-holding community, have been selling the land and among the major beneficiaries of the new land holding community happen to be two castes: the Yadav and the Kurmis."</p>

<p dir="ltr">"That is why in the last 33 years they never tried to implement land reforms, neither Lalu Prasad Yadav nor Nitish Kumar. That will expose the contradictions between the OBCs. The BJP already is the beneficiary of the larger chunk of the lower-class OBCs. The BJP has the advantage,” he pointed out.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The results of a caste survey by the government of Bihar have been made public. More than 63 per cent of the east Indian state's population belongs to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs), as per the data.

The results of a caste survey by the government of Bihar have been made public. More than 63 per cent of the east Indian state's population belongs to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs), as per the data. How significant is this data for the state and national politics? The Bihar legislature unanimously approved a resolution on the caste-based survey, said the state's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The survey took into account a person's economic situation in addition to their caste, which will help build new policies and programmes for the advancement of all classes. Caste Census: A contentious issue Data on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes were published following every independent India census from 1951 to 2011, but no information on other castes. Before that, caste information was included in every Census up until 1931. Caste-based data, however, was gathered but not released in 1941. There would not have been an all-India caste table, according to MWM Yeats, the census commissioner at the time. The contention was that the time has passed for this large, expensive table to be a part of the main project. As a result, there is now no accurate estimate for the population of OBCs, different groupings within the OBCs, and other disadvantaged groups. What is the caste survey in Bihar? The caste survey results were made public by the Bihar government on Monday (Oct 2). The national census, which was intended to be performed in 2021 but has yet to begin, was only going to include members of the scheduled castes (SCs) and scheduled tribes (STs), but the Nitish government decided to survey on its own last year. The Bihar assembly had unanimously approved the caste survey idea twice, first in 2019 and once in 2020. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister from the Janata Dal United (JD-U) party, was working with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the time, which now sits in the Opposition. The state administration began the survey procedure this year. In the interim, Nitish severed connections with the BJP and established a coalition government with erstwhile enemy the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and others in what is known as the "Mahagatbandhan" (Grand Alliance) to rule the state. The Grand Alliance is part of a 28-party national opposition alliance, INDIA, which aims to unseat Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the general elections of 2024. The caste census got off to a rocky start in January and was put on hold by the Patna High Court due to petitions opposing it. However, once the courts approved the exercise in August and dismissed the pleas, the exercise was continued. The exercise was funded with Rs 1 billion by the Nitish government last year, and the deadline was set for February 2023. However, the exercise started in January instead of February, and the results were released nine months later than expected. Although it is officially referred to as a "caste survey," in all actuality, it is a census because the exercise tallied the state's population and recorded it according to the caste identification of the people enumerated. The Bihar caste survey's results According to the Bihar caste survey, the 'backward communities' make up about 63 per cent of the state's population. Out of Bihar's estimated population of 130 million, the largest group is the extremely backward classes (EBCs), which make up about 36 per cent. With roughly 27.13 per cent, the other backward classes (OBCs) come in second. According to the caste study, the Yadavas, an OBC group that includes the family of former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, make up the largest social group in the state with a 14.27 per cent share of the population. The Janata Dal-United (JD-U) of Nitish is in coalition with the RJD, and Tejashwi, the son of Lalu, is the deputy chief minister of Bihar. According to the caste study, scheduled castes (SCs), also known as Dalits, make up 19.65 per cent of the state's population, and scheduled tribes (STs) make up roughly 1.68 per cent of the population of Bihar. About 15.52 per cent of the people in the state fall under the "unreserved category," often known as the "general" category. This group is referred to as the "upper castes" in general. The caste survey's sociopolitical importance The demand for adequate representation of historically underrepresented communities in public institutions and politics is linked to the call for the caste survey. Currently, there is a 15 per cent reservation for scheduled castes (SCs) in government employment and higher education, a 7 per cent reservation for scheduled tribes (STs), and a 22 per cent reservation for other backward classes (OBCs). Political parties make their estimates in states and for Lok Sabha and Assembly seats during elections. The Mandal Commission put the OBC population at 52 per cent; other estimates have been based on data from the National Sample Survey. The question arises, is this a political motive? If yes, then who shall benefit from it? To understand the nuances, Wion spoke to Dr. Sajjan Kumar, political analyst, and researcher. “An updated caste data is required not because to promote caste system but for proper implementation of the government schemes. So, it should have been done way before, as caste is a reality," he said. "The problem comes with how you utilise the data, What are the intentions? there lies the policy and politics." Kumar noted that there are different ways of reading the data. The EBCs constitute the majority, he pointed out, adding that the opposition party will try to make it upper-class versus the OBCs "but it may also snowball into dominant OBCS, the middle-class OBCs, and the extremely backward class OBCs." There has been no significant representation of the EBCs in the last 33 years, Kumar pointed out. "Since 1990, Bihar has been ruled by an OBC politician. Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Nitish Kumar belong to Yadav and Kurmis. Then what about EBCs? What is their credential? "Now the BJP may use this data to play against the Yadav and Kurmis for OBCs and the EBCs because in terms of representation. The BJP gets votes from the weaker OBCs and EBCs,” he added. Also read | Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit and what happens next? The most intriguing part is that caste numbers has been released but not the socio-economic data. And that is something that tells you why there is a hesitation. Also read | 55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning in catastrophic nuclear submarine accident If there are 85 per cent of weaker communities, why has the Bihar government not released the socio-economic data associated with it? Kumar said, “Since the 1970s, the pattern in Bihar has been the upper class, who were the major land-holding community, have been selling the land and among the major beneficiaries of the new land holding community happen to be two castes: the Yadav and the Kurmis." "That is why in the last 33 years they never tried to implement land reforms, neither Lalu Prasad Yadav nor Nitish Kumar. That will expose the contradictions between the OBCs. The BJP already is the beneficiary of the larger chunk of the lower-class OBCs. The BJP has the advantage,” he pointed out. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | How Bihar caste survey, showing 63% of population as OBCs and EBCs, is significant

Months before the Lok Sabha election, the Bihar government conducted a caste survey in the state. Bihar has become the first state to release data from a caste-based survey. What are its findings and political reactions?

Bihar Caste Survey: What are the findings and political reactions?

Ahead of India's general elections in 2024 nearly 20 opposition parties held a meeting in India's eastern state of Bihar to chalk out a strategy to defeat the ruling party BJP after holding discussions for close to four hours at least 17 parties gathered in Patna expressed their views father Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar said the leaders will meet in the next few days to give final shape to their plan of fighting the 2024 election together.

We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet

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