The Rajya Sabha polls have thrust Bihar CM Nitish Kumar back into the spotlight, highlighting his unparalleled 20-year grip on state power. As NDA leaders nominate, Nitish stands out for his strategic alliances, primarily with BJP, shaping Bihar’s destiny.
Rising from JP Movement activist to founder of Samta Party (later JD(U)), Nitish entered the CM’s office in 2000 briefly, but struck gold in 2005 with BJP, ushering an era of good governance. Highways expanded, schools multiplied, and crime rates plummeted under his watch.
His 10th oath-taking in 2020 cemented a world record, following NDA’s electoral triumph. Parliamentary stints as Central Minister honed his skills before state dominance.
Yet, Nitish’s path was turbulent: 2014’s JD(U) rout led to resignation and Manjhi’s elevation—a calculated Dalit outreach. Post-2013 NDA split, he allied with RJD twice (2015-17, 2022-24), only to realign with BJP each time, forming governments amid criticism.
Early 2000’s seven-day CM spell taught resilience. His flips reflect pragmatic ideology shifts, fueling opposition barbs, but delivering results in infrastructure and security.
Nationally, Nitish’s INDIA bloc involvement amplifies his stature. Bihar’s transformation from ‘BIMARU’ to a development hub owes much to his enduring political savvy.