Setback for Nitish Kumar as Former JD(U) MLA Bima Bharti Joins RJD

In a significant political development ahead of the Bihar Lok Sabha elections, former Janata Dal (United) MLA from Rupauli, Bima Bharti, dealt a blow to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar by joining the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in the presence of party leader Tejashwi Yadav. Bharti’s defection signals a potential shift in the political landscape of Bihar.

Bima Bharti’s Defection and Political Stance

Following her switch to the RJD, Bima Bharti expressed confidence in the electorate of Purnia, asserting their readiness to support her candidature in the Lok Sabha polls if nominated by her new party. She cited the lack of respect for the ‘ati-pichhda’ (extremely backward) classes within Bihar’s ruling coalition as a driving factor behind her decision.

Highlighting her alignment with RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, Bharti expressed readiness to contest the Lok Sabha elections under his guidance, emphasizing a new direction in her political journey.

Profile of Bima Bharti

Bima Bharti, a former state minister and representative of the Rupauli assembly segment in Purnea district, has been a notable figure in Bihar politics. Her absence during the recent trust vote sought by the Nitish Kumar government hinted at brewing discontent within the JD(U).

Political Dynamics and Additional Resignations

The defection of Bima Bharti adds to the unfolding political drama in Bihar, with former MLA Faraz Fatmi also relinquishing his JD(U) membership, following his father’s resignation from the party. The Fatmi family’s association with the RJD underscores the shifting alliances and loyalties within the state.

Alliance Dynamics and Seat Sharing

In parallel developments, discussions regarding seat sharing among opposition parties in Bihar, including the RJD and Congress, are progressing positively. RJD MP Manoj Jha’s comments hint at an imminent agreement, emphasizing the alliance’s focus on winnability and providing a credible alternative.

Addressing the recent resignation of Pashupati Kumar Paras from the Union Cabinet due to seat allocation issues within the NDA, RJD spokesperson Manoj Jha criticized the BJP’s alliance tactics, characterizing them as “use and throw.” Jha’s remarks suggest growing dissatisfaction among erstwhile NDA allies in Bihar.