Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday made sharp remarks on the political trajectory of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, alleging that he has been “betrayed” by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Speaking in Jaipur, Yadav said that he and several leaders from the opposition INDIA alliance had envisioned a different political future for Nitish Kumar. “I wanted him to retire as Prime Minister. Many of our INDIA alliance colleagues also wished that he would retire holding that post,” he said.
However, referring to the current developments surrounding Nitish Kumar’s move to the Rajya Sabha, Yadav suggested that the outcome has fallen short of those expectations. “But now it seems he will retire as a Rajya Sabha member,” he added.
In a direct political attack, Yadav accused the BJP of sidelining Kumar. “He has been betrayed by the BJP,” he said, without elaborating further on the circumstances behind the claim.
The remarks come amid ongoing speculation over Nitish Kumar’s political future, particularly following indications that he may step down as Bihar Chief Minister after taking oath as a Rajya Sabha MP. The development has triggered reactions across the political spectrum, with both allies and opponents weighing in on the implications.
Nitish Kumar, a veteran leader and key figure in Bihar politics, has played a significant role in national coalition dynamics over the years. His shifting alliances have often influenced broader political equations at the national level.
Akhilesh Yadav’s comments reflect the opposition’s attempt to frame the current developments as a setback for Kumar’s political stature, while also criticising the BJP’s role in the evolving scenario.
The BJP has not yet responded to Yadav’s remarks. Meanwhile, leaders from the Janata Dal (United) have maintained that Nitish Kumar continues to be the central figure in Bihar politics and that decisions regarding leadership transitions will be taken within the party and the NDA alliance.
The statement adds to the intensifying political discourse around Nitish Kumar’s future, as parties position themselves ahead of upcoming electoral contests and shifting alliances.
