KKN Gurugram Desk | A fresh controversy has erupted within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) after a statement from its MLA, Bhai Virendra, suggesting that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar wants to return to the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). However, Tejashwi Yadav has reportedly opposed this move, leading to conflicting opinions within the party.

The situation has sparked intense debates in Bihar’s political circles. On one side, Bhai Virendra claims that Nitish Kumar deliberately skipped the swearing-in ceremony of Delhi’s new Chief Minister Renu Gupta because he wants to join the opposition alliance. On the other hand, Tejashwi Yadav has made it clear that he is unwilling to welcome Nitish Kumar back into the alliance.

RJD Leaders Divided Over Nitish Kumar’s Return

The conflicting stance on Nitish Kumar’s potential return has caused discomfort within RJD. While Tejashwi Yadav firmly opposes Nitish Kumar’s inclusion, some leaders, including Bhai Virendra, believe that bringing him back could strengthen the alliance. This division within RJD raises questions about its political strategy and future stability.

Bhai Virendra’s latest statement adds to the existing uncertainty. He previously stated that in politics, there are “no permanent friends or enemies”, hinting at the possibility of reconciliation with Nitish Kumar. However, Tejashwi Yadav has consistently maintained his opposition, indicating a major shift in RJD’s political outlook.

Nitish Kumar’s Influence in Bihar Politics

For over two decades, Nitish Kumar has remained a key player in Bihar’s politics. Whether in alliance with the BJP or the RJD, his presence has always been significant. Political analysts argue that while Nitish Kumar’s party, JDU, may not have substantial individual strength, his presence in any coalition significantly boosts its chances of success.

Over the years, Nitish Kumar has switched alliances multiple times, making him an unpredictable force in Bihar politics. Despite this, RJD and BJP both find it difficult to ignore him. Whenever Nitish Kumar aligns with a coalition, the political equation shifts in its favor.

Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Past Statements on Nitish Kumar

Former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav has previously hinted at welcoming Nitish Kumar into the Grand Alliance. In January, Lalu Prasad stated that if Nitish Kumar decided to part ways with the BJP, he would consider working with him again. He even mentioned that he would forgive Nitish Kumar’s past political betrayals.

However, with Tejashwi Yadav now in command of RJD’s strategic decisions, it remains uncertain whether Lalu Prasad’s earlier statements still hold relevance. The question now is whether RJD will distance itself from Bhai Virendra’s remarks or reconsider its stance on Nitish Kumar.

Political Analysts Weigh In on RJD’s Internal Rift

Political analysts in Bihar believe that Bhai Virendra’s statements should not be taken too seriously. According to senior journalist Arun Kumar Pandey, Bhai Virendra is known for making controversial remarks that do not necessarily reflect RJD’s official stance.

Since Lalu Prasad Yadav has delegated decision-making authority to Tejashwi Yadav, RJD is unlikely to reconsider its stance on Nitish Kumar. Tejashwi Yadav has already declared that there is no possibility of an alliance with Nitish Kumar, making Bhai Virendra’s remarks politically irrelevant.

Despite this, it is widely accepted that political dynamics in Bihar remain highly unpredictable. Political alliances can change overnight, as history has shown time and again.

Is Bhai Virendra Indirectly Helping Tejashwi Yadav?

Some political experts believe that Bhai Virendra’s statements serve a deeper strategy. While his remarks might seem contrary to Tejashwi Yadav’s position, they could be a calculated move to weaken Nitish Kumar’s credibility.

By suggesting that Nitish Kumar wants to rejoin the Mahagathbandhan, Bhai Virendra is subtly reminding the public about Nitish Kumar’s history of frequent political shifts. This could portray him as an opportunistic leader, damaging his political standing in the long run.

Despite Bhai Virendra’s off-script remarks, RJD is unlikely to take disciplinary action against him. His statements might actually align with RJD’s broader political strategy—to keep Nitish Kumar’s credibility in question while maintaining a distance from him.

Why is Nitish Kumar Still Relevant in Bihar’s Political Landscape?

Bihar’s political history has shown that no party or coalition can afford to completely ignore Nitish Kumar. Over the past two decades, he has played a pivotal role in shaping election outcomes.

Even though JDU lacks independent political strength, Nitish Kumar’s strategic alliances have often decided the fate of governments in Bihar. His influence ensures that any coalition he joins gains a significant political advantage.

The real challenge for RJD is to decide whether it wants to reconsider its stance on Nitish Kumar or continue building its own political identity without him.

Future of RJD and Mahagathbandhan Without Nitish Kumar

With Tejashwi Yadav emerging as the key decision-maker in RJD, the party appears determined to move forward without Nitish Kumar. If RJD successfully strengthens its position, it might not need Nitish Kumar’s support in future elections.

However, if electoral calculations shift, the possibility of a political reconciliation cannot be ruled out. Bihar’s history has shown that political alliances can change based on electoral needs and power equations.

The latest developments within RJD highlight the volatile nature of Bihar politics. While Bhai Virendra’s remarks suggest a willingness to re-engage with Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav’s firm stance indicates a different political direction.

As Bihar moves closer to future elections, political equations may shift further. The big question remains—will RJD eventually soften its stance on Nitish Kumar, or is this the final chapter of their political relationship? Only time will tell.