Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav expressed his openness to Nishant Kumar, the son of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, entering politics, stating it could “revitalize” the Janata Dal (United) amid tensions with its alliance partners, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
During a press conference, Yadav downplayed Nishant’s recent appeal to voters to support his father in the forthcoming assembly elections, where he claimed Nitish Kumar was “100 percent” fit for leadership.
Yadav asserted his belief that his father, Lalu Prasad Yadav, is in better health compared to Nitish Kumar and highlighted Lalu’s contributions to the welfare of marginalized communities, citing the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations during his tenure.
As the leader of the opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Yadav referred to Nishant as a brother and expressed good wishes for him, even hinting at plans for marriage. He noted, “If he chooses to pursue a political career, that is his right,” emphasizing that he would welcome Nishant’s potential entry into politics, suggesting it could breathe new life into the party founded by the late Sharad Yadav.
Rumors have circulated regarding Nishant, 47, possibly stepping into the political arena ahead of the Bihar elections, although neither he nor his father has made any official statements.
Yadav also addressed comments from JD(U) minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, who indicated that the party is “ready for polls at any time.” This has sparked speculation about potential early elections. Yadav questioned if there was an alliance between the JD(U) and the Election Commission, likening it to methods employed by the ruling BJP at the national level.
He reaffirmed his party’s readiness for elections, recalling their participation in the 2020 elections amid the COVID pandemic. Regarding Prime Minister Modi’s forthcoming visit to Bhagalpur, Yadav remarked that these visits are politically motivated, suggesting that the ruling party prioritizes power over the state’s welfare.
