Patna (Rajeev Sharma): As the dust settles on the counting of votes in Bihar’s 2025 Assembly elections, all eyes are on Nitish Kumar, the state’s longest-serving chief minister. With over two decades at the helm, the Janata Dal (United) leader is seeking another term, as his party leads in the early trends.
Kumar, who first took office in 2000, has guided Bihar through various challenges, coalition governments, and shifting political dynamics. Known for his ability to maneuver through complex political waters, Kumar’s political longevity has made him one of the most prominent figures in Bihar’s modern political history.
A Legacy of Resilience in Bihar’s Political Landscape
Born in 1951 in Bakhtiyarpur, Kumar entered the political sphere during the Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) movement of the 1970s, alongside contemporaries like Lalu Prasad Yadav. His career took off in the 1980s when he won his first Assembly seat from Harnaut. He later went on to represent Barh and Nalanda in Parliament, gaining national prominence.
In his two decades as chief minister, Kumar became known for transforming Bihar’s infrastructure and social sectors. He is widely credited with improving road networks, electricity access, and educational facilities, all while focusing on law and order, which had been major issues in the state prior to his tenure.
His leadership in bringing about stability, economic growth, and social welfare programs reshaped the state’s image, once mired in corruption and misgovernance.
Political Pragmatism: The “Flip-Flop” Narrative
Kumar’s political career, however, has been anything but straightforward. His ability to navigate shifting alliances has earned him the label of a political “flip-flopper.” Over the years, he has repeatedly switched alliances, adapting to the evolving dynamics of Bihar’s politics.
In 2013, he severed ties with the BJP following the rise of Narendra Modi as the party’s national leader. Shortly after, he formed a new coalition with the RJD and Congress for the 2015 Bihar elections, under the banner of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). However, just two years later, in 2017, Kumar returned to the NDA after citing corruption charges against the RJD and re-entered the chief minister’s office.
Despite the challenges within the NDA, especially following the 2020 election when the JD(U) saw a significant drop in seats, Kumar continued to lead the state. In August 2022, he made another dramatic move, breaking away from the BJP and rejoining the Mahagathbandhan, with Tejashwi Yadav as his deputy.
His latest political pivot occurred in early 2024, when he left the opposition’s INDIA bloc and returned to the BJP-led NDA, solidifying his position as Bihar’s chief minister for the ninth time.
A Rare Approach: The Legislative Council
One aspect that has set Kumar apart is his decision, since 2006, to serve as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) rather than contest the Bihar Assembly elections directly. This move, rare for a sitting chief minister, allows him to stay involved in the state’s governance while not directly seeking a legislative seat.
His preference for behind-the-scenes influence has led many to view him as a shrewd and calculated political operator who values stability over confrontation.
Looking to the Future
With his years of experience and a track record of reshaping Bihar’s political landscape, Kumar’s ambitions for another term in office are clear. His ability to form new coalitions and adapt to the changing political climate will likely continue to play a crucial role as the election results unfold.
Now in his mid-70s, Nitish Kumar’s next move will not only impact his legacy but also the future trajectory of Bihar’s political and developmental path. Whether he retains his grip on the chief minister’s office for another term or faces challenges from new political forces in the state, his influence remains undeniable in shaping the course of Bihar’s politics.
