As Bihar gears up for Assembly elections this year, a statement by RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav has stirred political speculation. In an interview on January 1, Lalu remarked that the “doors are open” for Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to return to the Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan).
Lalu’s statement comes at a time when his son, Tejashwi Yadav, has made contrasting remarks, adding complexity to the political narrative. During the interview, Lalu emphasized, “Nitish Kumar can join us, and we can work together. My doors are always open for him and the public.”
When asked about Lalu’s comments, Nitish Kumar dismissed them, saying, “Kya bol rahen hain… Chodhiye na” (What are you talking about… just let it go).
Union Minister Lallan Singh, reacting to the situation, reaffirmed JD(U)’s commitment to the NDA, stating, “We are firmly with the NDA. People can say whatever they want; it’s their freedom of expression.”
Tejashwi Yadav, echoing his previous stance, reiterated that Nitish Kumar’s return to the Grand Alliance would not be accepted, likening it to self-inflicted harm. He added that Lalu’s remarks might have been a way to diffuse tension when questioned by the media.
This development comes amidst speculations about Nitish Kumar’s recent trip to Delhi, where he was expected to meet BJP President JP Nadda but returned to Patna without the meeting.
With the election season approaching, such statements and counter-statements are adding to the political drama in Bihar, keeping observers and the public intrigued.