Bihar Elections 2025: BJP’s Nitish Kumar Puzzle
The political buzz in Bihar is intensifying ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, but one question overshadows all others: Will the BJP stick with Nitish Kumar? The JD(U) leader and current Chief Minister has been a shifting ally—rejoining the NDA in 2024 after exiting in 2022. Yet, the BJP’s silence on his role in 2025 raises questions. Is Nitish too old, is the election too distant to decide, or is the alliance too risky?
Nitish Kumar’s Flip-Flop Legacy: BJP’s Dilemma
Nitish Kumar’s career is marked by dramatic U-turns. After rejoining the NDA in 2024, his unpredictability remains a concern. While his governance record in Bihar is strong, his frequent alliance switches have eroded trust.
For the BJP, Nitish is both an asset and a liability. His return helped the party sweep Bihar in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. But relying on him for 2025 could backfire if he switches sides again—a risk the BJP may avoid.
Age Factor: Is Nitish Kumar Past His Prime?
At 73, Nitish isn’t the youngest leader in Bihar’s politics. BJP insiders suggest the party may prefer a younger CM face, with names like Sushil Modi, Nityanand Rai, or Giriraj Singh in circulation.
Yet, replacing Nitish isn’t simple. JD(U) holds sway over EBCs and Mahadalits—a crucial vote bank. Any move to sideline him could split the NDA’s base, making the BJP cautious.
Timing Troubles: Why BJP Is Playing the Waiting Game
With elections over a year away, the BJP may delay its decision. The party has a history of last-minute leadership changes (like in Rajasthan and MP). Early commitment could limit flexibility if anti-incumbency builds against JD(U).
The Big Risk: Can BJP Afford to Drop Nitish?
Bihar’s caste politics makes Nitish vital in countering RJD’s Muslim-Yadav (MY) base. Ditching him could weaken the NDA unless the BJP crafts a strong alternative narrative.
However, sticking with Nitish means inheriting his baggage—corruption whispers, governance fatigue, and alliance instability. The BJP must decide: Is loyalty worth the risk?
What’s Next for Bihar Politics?
The BJP’s silence keeps options open. PM Modi and Amit Shah have avoided direct praise or criticism of Nitish, maintaining strategic ambiguity.
As 2025 nears, the BJP must choose: Bet on Nitish one last time or gamble with a new face? Either way, Bihar’s political drama will stay center stage.
