Nitish Kumar Sets Ambitious 200-Seat Goal for JD(U) in Next Bihar Assembly Polls
In a significant political development in Patna, former Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar on Monday called upon party legislators to ramp up their efforts in their respective constituencies. He outlined an ambitious objective of securing 200 seats in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, a substantial increase from the party's current tally of 85 seats in the 243-member legislative body.
Nitish Assures Continued Active Role in Bihar Affairs
Addressing the first gathering of JD(U) lawmakers since his resignation as Chief Minister on April 14, Nitish Kumar provided reassurances to the MLAs regarding his ongoing involvement in Bihar's governance. He emphasized that relinquishing the CM's position would not diminish his oversight of the state's development initiatives.
"I will tour across the state. Don't worry, everything will be fine," Nitish told the assembled legislators during the meeting, which was held at 1, Anne Marg, the official residence of the Chief Minister.
JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar later elaborated, stating that Nitish had committed to devoting maximum time to Bihar, with the exception of attending Parliament sessions in Delhi. This pledge underscores his determination to maintain a hands-on approach to state matters.
Legislature Party Leadership and Unanimous Authorization
The meeting, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, was primarily convened to elect the leader of the JD(U) legislature party ahead of the one-day assembly session scheduled for April 24. During this session, the new NDA government, led by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, is expected to seek a vote of confidence in the House.
However, the party did not proceed with electing a legislature party leader. Instead, in a display of unity, all legislators unanimously authorized Nitish Kumar to select the leader. This position had previously been held by Nitish himself but became vacant on March 30 following his resignation from the Bihar legislative council after his election to the Rajya Sabha.
Development Work to Continue Under New Government
Speaking to reporters after the conclave, Neeraj Kumar conveyed Nitish's assurance that the developmental projects initiated during his tenure would persist under the new administration, where JD(U) remains a crucial ally. He added that Nitish plans to conduct tours across Bihar in the near future to monitor progress and ensure continuity.
Mokama MLA Anant Singh highlighted that Nitish had explicitly instructed legislators to work diligently to achieve the party's target of 200 seats in the next assembly polls. This directive reflects a strategic push to expand JD(U)'s political footprint in the state.
Resolution Congratulating Deputy Chief Ministers
A resolution passed during the meeting extended congratulations to JD(U)'s two deputy chief ministers, Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav, on their induction into the new cabinet led by Samrat Choudhary. This gesture reinforces party cohesion and support for the current governmental structure.
Nitish Kumar's active engagement and clear electoral targets signal a robust preparation phase for JD(U) as it gears up for future political battles in Bihar, with the former CM positioning himself as a pivotal figure in the state's ongoing development narrative.
