Nitish Kumar's Political Maneuvering: From NDA Outcast to BJP Palswarm
Nitish Kumar, the former Chief Minister of Bihar, has been embroiled in a series of political maneuvers that have left many questioning his principles and motives. His recent overtures towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raise questions about his alignment and possible political gains.
Opportunistic Politics of Nitish Kumar
One cannot help but draw parallels between Nitish Kumar and other opportunistic politicians like Sharad Pawar and Arvind Kejriwal. Known for their shifting allegiance based on perceived benefits, these individuals have demonstrated a pattern of behavior that prioritizes personal gains over ethical considerations.
Nitish Kumar's changing stance towards the BJP is a clear case of opportunist politics. As the BJP's ideological stronghold in various parts of India grows, Nitish Kumar is strategically aligning himself with Narendra Modi. This shift from an earlier fence-sitting position suggests a willingness to abandon principles for political gains.
The facade of rectitude and ethics that Nitish Kumar often portrays ()
The Bihar Political Landscape
Bihar is now navigating a new political landscape where the influence of the Mahagathbandhan (a coalition of political parties) wanes, and the BJP emerges as a dominant force. However, the transformative impact is far from immediate. Overcoming decades of political inertia cannot be achieved in just 20 months.
Fast forward to the present, where Nitish Kumar has switched gears, joining hands with the BJP. This move is rooted in strategic calculations rather than ideological alliances. When Nitish Kumar left the NDA, he did so citing concerns over communalism. Now, he seeks to align with Modi, primarily to maximize his political benefits.
Political Calculations and Election Dynamics
Nitish Kumar's decision to shift from the NDA to the BJP is influenced by several considerations. One significant factor is the desire to monopolize the credit for developmental work. By rejoicing with the BJP, Nitish Kumar aims to ensure that his efforts remain the focus during future elections.
This strategic move also benefits Nitish Kumar's anti-corruption image. By allying with the BJP, he can portray himself as a strong opponent to the INC (Indian National Congress) and potentially strengthen his position in electoral contests. Additionally, a BJP-led government could provide more financial support and special status for Bihar, wherein Nitish Kumar would stand to gain more.
The upcoming Lok Sabha elections offer an opportunity for both parties to showcase their strengths. By contesting against each other, they can leverage their potential to form strong alliances within the government, enhancing their chances of electoral success. This win-win situation for both parties leaves the opposition fighting a weaker front.
Conclusion
The political maneuvering of Nitish Kumar is a testament to the age-old practice of opportunistic politics. His strategic shift from NDA to BJP underscores the importance of political gains over long-standing principles. As Bihar leans towards a new political landscape, the influence of the BJP continues to grow, potentially altering the dynamics of politics in the state.