Nitish Kumar coming out after the meeting with higher central leaders
The recent Lok Sabha election results have thrust Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Andhra Pradesh’s Chandrababu Naidu into pivotal roles. The BJP, falling short by 32 seats, now depends on these key regional leaders to secure a third term in office.
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) led by Naidu and Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) or JDU, with 16 and 12 MPs respectively, are essential to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Their combined strength is critical since the BJP’s 240 seats alone are insufficient to achieve a majority.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of these alliances in his victory speech, highlighting the necessity of their support. However, there’s ongoing speculation about the Congress-led INDIA bloc, which holds 232 seats, potentially attempting to lure Kumar back.
Nitish Kumar’s Departure from INDIA Bloc
Sources close to Kumar have dismissed any return to the INDIA bloc but hinted that BJP should recall why Kumar exited. The primary reason was delays in appointing him as the bloc’s Convenor, a position deferred due to objections from Congress’s Rahul Gandhi and the absence of Trinamool leader Mamata Banerjee at a crucial meeting.
Kumar’s dissatisfaction with the INDIA bloc was further fueled by internal discord, such as a sharp social media post by Rohini Acharya, daughter of ally-rival Lalu Prasad Yadav. Kumar’s withdrawal from the bloc was also influenced by these internal conflicts.
Despite these tensions, the JDU has made clear its expectations to the BJP, including two cabinet positions, a junior Union Minister role, and a common minimum program. The Railways Ministry, previously held by Kumar, is among their desired posts.
Strategic Demands and Political Maneuvering
In previous terms, the BJP enforced strict limits on cabinet berth allocations to allies, granting only one post per allied party. This led to Kumar’s departure from the NDA post the 2019 elections after he left the RJD alliance.
Currently, with the BJP needing Kumar’s support, the JDU expects their demands to be met without significant resistance. Should the BJP hesitate, the JDU might leverage the possibility of rejoining the INDIA bloc to pressurize the BJP.
BJP’s Balancing Act
The BJP recognizes the need for flexibility but is cautious about ceding key positions such as the Lok Sabha Speaker’s Chair or major ministries like Finance, Home, Defense, and External Affairs. Historically, allies have been given less prominent portfolios like food processing and heavy industries.
The BJP aims to retain control over crucial sectors, particularly those tied to infrastructure and welfare, such as road transport and highways. However, there is a possibility of offering the JDU ministries like Panchayati Raj or Rural Development and junior roles in significant ministries like Finance.
Conclusion
As the political landscape evolves, the BJP must navigate the complex demands of its allies while maintaining control over critical areas. The negotiations with Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu will be decisive in shaping the new government’s structure and priorities. The outcome will significantly influence the NDA’s ability to govern effectively and sustain its political momentum.
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