Ex-JD(U) Leader Warns of Major Poll Setback Amid Internal Fractures
Former JD(U) state general secretary Chhotu Singh has voiced grave concerns about the party's leadership dynamics, asserting that Nitish Kumar's command has significantly weakened. He alleges that a group of close associates is now steering the party away from its traditional base and actively undermining its electoral prospects.
Pointing to a lackluster showing in MLC polls, the systematic sidelining of senior functionaries, and a series of strategic shifts, Singh forecasted that the JD(U) might fail to secure even ten seats in an immediate assembly election. He recalled how Nitish single-handedly raised the party to prominence, but current internal maneuvers appear to be dismantling that legacy.
Singh noted that several high-profile candidates lost their election deposits during the recent council polls. He contrasted this with past graduate constituency elections, where the JD(U) routinely won seats without major campaigns due to the party's proven development record. Today, that voter sentiment has clearly shifted.
Despite Nitish's widespread infrastructure initiatives aimed at transforming the state, the JD(U) exited the recent elections with a score of zero out of four seats. Singh also questioned the protracted result counting process, citing the Bankipur constituency where declarations were delayed by three days, a stark departure from historical precedents.
Addressing cabinet reshuffle controversies, Singh challenged the exclusion of veteran politicians. He suggested that if Nitish held absolute sway, figures like Shyam Rajak, Narendra Narayan Yadav, Maheshwar Hazari, and influential Kushwaha leaders would have been inducted. He noted a noticeable dip in Nitish's ground-level political activism over the past two years, implying that shadow factions are now guiding policy and personnel decisions.
On the BJP's decision to absorb two independent winners, Singh argued that political strategies often mirror past actions. He pointed out that the JD(U) previously embraced BJP defections, making the current scenario a predictable outcome of established political norms.
Singh also expressed dismay over the expulsion of Anant Singh and Anand Mohan. He emphasized that Anant consistently backed the government, faced significant political heat, and helped stabilize the administration. Despite his loyalty, disciplinary action was initiated, and his family was handed a hurried 15 to 20-day notice to vacate property. Singh clarified that these steps stem from internal party dynamics rather than external pressures from the BJP or Samrat Chaudhary.
Regarding his own political trajectory, Singh affirmed his continued respect for Nitish Kumar but confirmed upcoming discussions with RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav. He described Lalu as a mentor who provided him with crucial opportunities and dignity. While withholding any definitive announcement about joining the RJD, he stressed that political alignments depend on circumstances and mutual respect. He will remain observant as the political landscape shifts.
Concluding his assessment, Singh shared his disappointment over the electoral wipeout, noting his emotional reaction to the complete loss. He cautioned that failing to rein in the influence of those surrounding Nitish could result in devastating losses during the next assembly polls. He remains committed to respectful political engagement while closely monitoring internal developments.