In recent days, the BJP and its allies have made a concerted effort to assert that the next Bihar election will be fought under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership, even though the state polls are still months away, in October-November.
This issue has gained significance in light of the NDA’s recent decision in Maharashtra, where the BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis was appointed Chief Minister, with the incumbent Eknath Shinde accepting the position of Deputy CM. This has sparked speculation that a similar model could be adopted in Bihar, where the BJP holds more seats than its ally, the JDU, to which Nitish Kumar belongs. Home Minister Amit Shah’s comment that the leadership will be decided "later" has only fueled further debate.
Nitish Kumar is known for not tolerating challenges to his leadership, having switched sides in the past when necessary. As the buzz intensified in Bihar, the BJP recalibrated its strategy. After a key meeting of its core group last week, the party announced that the upcoming election would be fought under both Nitish and Modi’s leadership. This was a clear attempt to send a reassuring message to the state, particularly to Nitish Kumar, who has become important in countering the INDIA alliance’s social justice agenda, as well as the recent controversy surrounding B.R. Ambedkar.
At the same time, the central government appointed Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan as the new Governor of Bihar. Khan, a Muslim, is the first such appointee in the state in 26 years. His appointment is likely to send a positive message to the state’s Muslim population—17% of the electorate—and may help strengthen the BJP’s appeal in a state where the opposition RJD draws significant support from Yadavs and Muslims. As Governor, Khan will have ample time to engage with and improve the dialogue between the NDA and these key voter groups.
Khan has demonstrated a willingness to take positions that may not align with local leadership, particularly in his previous standoff with the Left government in Kerala. In his new assignment, Khan will have a more conciliatory approach with Nitish Kumar. Nonetheless, he is likely to be proactive in his public engagements as the election draws nearer.
As Bihar moves closer to the polls, all eyes will be on Nitish Kumar and how he reacts to the overtures of his allies, particularly, the BJP.
