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Nitish Kumar’s genius remains his ability to construct a broad social coalition that cuts across the traditional Yadav-dominated structure of the RJD
The most potent political challenge for Nitish Kumar stems not just from the opposition but from the perceived ambiguity within his own alliance. File pic/PTI
As Bihar heads into a high-stakes election next month, the political destiny of Nitish Kumar, the state’s longest-serving Chief Minister, once again hangs in the balance. The veteran leader, affectionately known as “Sushasan Babu” (the man of good governance), enters the contest leading the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) while simultaneously navigating challenges born from his own two-decade-long tenure and a reputation for political volatility. This election is widely perceived as a pivotal moment—potentially the final chapter of a complex and enduring political career.
Nitish Kumar’s political journey, rooted in the socialist movements of Jayaprakash Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia, is defined by his transformative governance since he first came to power in 2005, ending what the NDA frequently refers to as the “Jungle Raj” era. His undeniable success lies in restoring law and order, which had been severely compromised, and launching a massive infrastructure push. Key achievements, such as building extensive road networks, ensuring near-universal electricity access, and pioneering welfare schemes like the Mukhyamantri Cycle Yojana for schoolgirls, as well as a controversial prohibition imposition, not only earned him the “Sushasan Babu” moniker but also cemented a powerful, cross-caste support base, most notably among women, Dalits, and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). His administration’s focus on empowerment, including significant quotas for women in local bodies and government jobs, has made the female electorate his most dependable political asset.
However, the current election campaign has laid bare the vulnerabilities of his long tenure. The primary charge against him is voter fatigue, coupled with the state’s persistent problems of high unemployment and a staggering rate of labour migration—issues that his infrastructure push and “Saat Nischay” programmes have not fully resolved. Critics from the opposition, primarily the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan, have intensified their attacks, questioning his physical health and administrative effectiveness, portraying him as a figure who has grown dependent on his alliance partners.
The most potent political challenge for Nitish Kumar stems not just from the opposition but from the perceived ambiguity within his own alliance. Despite repeated assurances from top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that the NDA is fighting the election under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, the absence of an ironclad pre-poll declaration naming him the next Chief Minister has fuelled speculation. This ambiguity allows the opposition to sow doubt, with his rival, Tejashwi Yadav, alleging that the BJP intends to sideline him post-victory. This situation highlights the inherent tension in the alliance: while Nitish provides local credibility, social engineering, and a proven track record of stable governance, the BJP has grown into the dominant partner, forcing the Janata Dal (United) leader to walk a delicate political tightrope.
In a state where every election is a complex mosaic of caste equations and social justice narratives, Nitish Kumar’s genius remains his ability to construct a broad social coalition that cuts across the traditional Yadav-dominated structure of the RJD. The final outcome of the election will be a referendum on whether the quiet satisfaction generated by his “justice with development” model, especially among his core constituency of EBCs and women, can withstand the clamour for change represented by a young, ambitious challenger and the fatigue accumulated over two decades in power. The endurance of “Sushasan Babu” will be tested not just by the vote count, but by the ultimate political arithmetic that follows the election results.
Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He trawls X via …Read More
Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He trawls X via … Read More
October 30, 2025, 22:38 IST
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