Union Home Minister Amit Shah broke his silence on the burning question of Bihar’s chief ministerial face, offering both clarity and suspense. In a conversation with NDTV in Patna, Shah affirmed that the election is being fought under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership but stopped short of naming him the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) official CM candidate for the post-poll scenario.
The Official Stance from the Top
Amid persistent questions, Amit Shah provided a definitive, yet open-ended, response. He stated that he had clarified this point multiple times and was doing so once again. “I clarify once again, Nitish ji is the chief minister, we are fighting the election under his leadership. There is no confusion in NDA regarding this, nor should it be spread,” Shah asserted. The statement clearly supports Nitish Kumar’s current leadership and role in the ongoing campaign but stops short of promising his future position.
However, what does this signify once the votes are tallied? At this moment, Shah changed the story’s focus from a predetermined political face to constitutional procedures, adding a crucial element of suspense.
The ‘After Election’ Response and Its Implications
When pressed on why the NDA had not made a formal announcement like the opposition Mahagathbandhan’s declaration of Tejashwi Yadav, Shah offered a constitutional explanation. He pointed out that the formal decision on the chief minister’s post would be taken by the elected MLAs after the election results are declared. “The process for selecting the chief minister is a constitutional one determined by all MLAs sitting together after the election,” he told the news outlet.
Why is this significant? This “after election” response is drawing attention as it avoids making a clear commitment. It stands in contrast to the opposition’s firm position and has sparked talk about possible tensions within the NDA. Analysts are also comparing it to Maharashtra, where after a joint fight, power shifted to Eknath Shinde as chief minister.
Addressing the Opposition’s Attacks
The Home Minister’s clarifications come against a backdrop of fierce attacks from opposition leaders. Congress leader Ashok Gehlot claimed that Nitish Kumar “knows he won’t become Chief Minister this time.” Similarly, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had earlier alleged that the Chief Minister was not in good health and had lost control over the administration. Yadav boldly predicted, “He is not coming back. He will be finished after the polls.”
How did the NDA manifesto event add fuel to the fire? The opposition’s criticism intensified after the NDA’s election manifesto was released in an unusually brief event. Congress leaders labeled it an “insult to Bihar,” suggesting that Nitish Kumar was sidelined and not allowed to speak, indicating internal troubles within the alliance.
On Nitish Kumar’s Health and Campaign Vigor
Responding to questions on whether the short manifesto release was linked to Nitish Kumar’s health, Amit Shah brushed aside such speculation. He provided a logistical reason, stating that if all six leaders present had spoken, the event would have been very long. Shah emphasized Kumar’s busy campaign schedule to refute the health narrative. “He is doing five rallies every day in five villages. Campaigning in Bihar is considered a sign of good health in itself,” Shah stated, presenting this as proof of the CM’s fitness.
Confidence in Victory and the Road Ahead
Exuding confidence in the NDA’s performance, Amit Shah predicted that the alliance would secure a strong majority. He projected a win of around 160 of the 243 seats in the Bihar Assembly, which would bring the NDA back to power for a fifth consecutive term since 2005. The alliance is held to a high standard by this prediction, which makes the choice of chief minister even more crucial. The Bihar polls will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with the counting of votes scheduled for November 14.
