Will NDA Contest Bihar Elections Under Nitish Kumar's Leadership?

Mumbai, July 4 (NationPress) - Union Minister and leader of the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Jitan Ram Manjhi, announced that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is set to participate in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections under the guidance of Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United head, Nitish Kumar.

"All NDA leaders have reached a consensus that with five parties in the alliance, including ours, the Bihar elections scheduled for November 2025 will be contested under Nitish Kumar's leadership. Traditionally, the leader during elections is expected to take up the Chief Minister's role. Therefore, Nitish Kumar will undoubtedly be our candidate for the CM position. We are confident of a win under his stewardship," affirmed Manjhi.

When questioned about his aspirations to reclaim the Chief Minister's position, the 79-year-old leader dismissed the notion, attributing his decision to his age and current responsibilities.

"Regarding my age, I previously resolved not to engage in electoral politics beyond the age of 75. However, due to certain situations, I contested in 2015 and again in 2020. At this stage, I feel unfit to run for elections," he stated.

Manjhi expressed, "I do not see myself as suitable for the Chief Ministerial role."

He continued, "PM (Narendra) Modi has assigned me ministerial duties, and I am wholeheartedly focused on fulfilling them. Even at my age, I remain active—I’m diligently working to enhance my department. Consequently, I no longer aspire for the Chief Minister's position as I cannot commit the required time and energy."

He reiterated his party’s steadfast devotion to the NDA, emphasizing its significant role within the coalition.

"Hindustani Awam Morcha comprises four MLAs, one MLC, a minister, and a Lok Sabha member. We have consistently remained loyal to the NDA and will continue to do so. In Bihar, the emphasis is on development, and under Nitish Kumar's leadership, the state has witnessed remarkable advancements in electricity, law and order, and education. On a national scale, PM Modi has become a pivotal figure, reshaping India's global image," he remarked.

Manjhi highlighted the effectiveness of the "double-engine government," which he believes resonates with voters throughout Bihar.

"The public here is convinced that a government led by both Nitish Kumar and PM Modi is the optimal choice for the state’s future. Every child in Bihar is considering supporting the NDA once more. We are united and prepared to advance," he concluded.