Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's recent behavior has fueled political turmoil in Bihar ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. His actions, particularly leaving the stage during the playing of the national anthem at a recent event in Patna, have provided the opposition with ammunition for attack.
Patna: The BJP's challenges are seemingly mounting ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's recent "erratic" behavior has sparked a political controversy. His actions of leaving the stage during the national anthem in Patna have drawn sharp criticism from the opposition. While the BJP remains committed to contesting the elections under Nitish Kumar's leadership, his unpredictable actions have given the opposition an opportunity to attack, potentially increasing tensions within the alliance and impacting electoral calculations.
Leaving the Stage During the National Anthem Becomes a Point of Contention
During the inauguration ceremony of the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 in Patna on Thursday, when the national anthem was announced, Nitish Kumar abruptly left the stage and began shaking hands with players. When the anthem began, he stood smiling and waving. The opposition immediately launched an attack, labeling it an insult to the national anthem.
This unexpected behavior has also raised questions about Nitish Kumar's health. The opposition claims his physical and mental state is no longer suitable for the Chief Minister's office. RJD leader and Rajya Sabha MP Misa Bharti stated, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah should consider who is leading Bihar. Nitish Kumar's behavior appears increasingly erratic."
BJP's Growing Anxiety
The BJP, which is strategizing to contest the elections in alliance with the JDU, finds itself in a quandary following this controversy. A senior party leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "We are committed to contesting the elections under Nitish Kumar's leadership, but his recent actions are providing the opposition with unnecessary issues. We hope he will clarify his position soon."
Over the past few months, Nitish Kumar's public behavior has shown considerable variability. At times he appears completely confident, while at other times he exhibits peculiar behavior in public events. His recent 'Pragati Yatra' saw him brimming with confidence, but on other occasions, his behavior has been erratic.
What Impact on the Elections?
Nitish Kumar's political acumen and track record of good governance have kept him in power until now. However, his current demeanor is making it difficult for his alliance partners to respond. The BJP is confident that the people of Bihar will see the NDA as a better alternative compared to the RJD's "Jungle Raj," but Nitish Kumar's erratic behavior has increased the BJP's concerns.
