Giriraj Singh Calls for Bharat Ratna for Nitish Kumar
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Patna, Dec 25 (NationPress) Union Minister Giriraj Singh has urged that the Bharat Ratna, India’s most prestigious civilian honor, be bestowed upon Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Addressing the media in Begusarai, Singh emphasized the remarkable contributions of both leaders to their respective states.
He commended Nitish Kumar for his role in elevating Bihar from what he described as the 'jungle raj' period characterized by poor governance, deteriorating infrastructure, and diminishing public services during Lalu Prasad Yadav's rule.
Singh noted the significant enhancements in roads, hospitals, and schools, crediting these improvements to Nitish Kumar’s administration.
Similarly, he recognized Naveen Patnaik’s long-standing service in Odisha, praising his commitment which has been instrumental in the state's progress over the years.
“The achievements of such leaders deserve national recognition through the Bharat Ratna, as their actions have profoundly influenced the lives of millions and established high standards in governance,” Singh asserted.
This announcement arrives amidst rising political tensions following comments made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a television debate regarding leadership for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections in 2025.
Shah’s remarks have sparked speculation concerning the BJP’s position on Nitish Kumar's leadership. Additionally, Nitish Kumar’s recent health issues and circulating rumors of his dissatisfaction have contributed to the unease.
Despite these uncertainties, both the BJP and JDU have officially confirmed that the NDA will participate in the 2025 elections under Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Nonetheless, the underlying tensions within the alliance seem to have prompted the BJP to adopt a more conciliatory approach.
Recently, BJP leaders have been stressing the importance of unity, with gestures like Giriraj Singh's appeal for the Bharat Ratna for Nitish Kumar being part of efforts to ensure his contentment. Earlier, Dilip Jaiswal publicly declared during a core committee meeting of the BJP Bihar unit that the 2025 Assembly elections in Bihar would be contested under Nitish Kumar’s leadership.
