Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s recent political maneuvers have garnered significant attention, particularly his shifting alliances between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other political entities. In January 2024, Kumar resigned from his position, exited the Mahagathbandhan alliance, and rejoined the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), subsequently taking oath for his ninth term as Chief Minister.
Nitish Kumar’s Silence: A Political Enigma for BJP Amid Ambedkar Controversy
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has once again found himself at the center of political speculation due to his recent silence on contentious issues, including remarks about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Kumar’s history of shifting political allegiances has only amplified concerns within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), sparking fears of another dramatic political realignment.
A History of Political Shifts
Nitish Kumar, the leader of the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], has been known for his ability to navigate alliances fluidly. Over the past decade, he has switched sides multiple times—allying with the BJP, then breaking away to join the Mahagathbandhan, and later returning to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Most recently, Kumar rejoined the NDA in January 2024 after a brief stint with the opposition, highlighting his reputation as a political chameleon.
This unpredictability has made Kumar both a critical ally and a source of unease for the BJP. While his return to the NDA was seen as a strategic win, his current silence on recent controversies has left many wondering whether another shift is on the horizon.
The Ambedkar Controversy and Its Fallout
The latest controversy stems from remarks made by Amit Shah about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, which many perceived as dismissive. Opposition leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have seized on the remarks to question the commitment of BJP allies, including Kumar, to Ambedkar’s legacy.
In an open letter, Kejriwal called on Kumar and other NDA allies to reconsider their association with the BJP, asserting that those who respect Ambedkar cannot support the ruling party. This move has intensified pressure on Kumar to clarify his stance, especially given Bihar’s large Dalit population, which reveres Ambedkar.
BJP’s Damage Control
Amid growing concerns, BJP leaders have sought to downplay the controversy and reaffirm their alliance with Kumar. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary recently declared that the NDA would contest the upcoming Bihar assembly elections under the joint leadership of Nitish Kumar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
However, doubts persist within political circles about Kumar’s long-term intentions. Observers note that his silence could either be a strategic pause or a prelude to another political pivot, potentially citing Ambedkar’s legacy as a justification for switching sides.
The Road Ahead
As Bihar gears up for its next assembly elections, the political landscape remains volatile. Kumar’s silence and his track record of surprising shifts keep both allies and opponents on edge. Whether he remains with the BJP or engineers another alliance realignment could significantly impact not just Bihar’s political future but also the national political narrative.
For now, Nitish Kumar’s calculated silence continues to fuel speculation, leaving both supporters and critics anxiously awaiting his next move.
