Patna is buzzing with discontent as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar files his nomination for Rajya Sabha, leaving a trail of dismay among JD(U) workers and the general public. Central Minister Ramnath Thakur, speaking candidly to the media, acknowledged the widespread anger as entirely natural.
In a press interaction here, Thakur, a Union Minister of State, emphasized that Kumar took this decision independently. ‘When the Chief Minister himself has chosen this path, what more can be said? The public’s frustration is real and expected,’ he stated. Not just party cadres, but ordinary citizens too feel let down after Kumar’s two decades of dedicated service to Bihar.
JD(U) MLA Vinay Chaudhary from Benipur echoed similar sentiments, admitting the sadness gripping legislators and supporters alike. ‘Senior leadership’s call is final, but this is unprecedented— a leader of over 20 years departing, and the people mourning his exit,’ he told reporters.
The announcement on Thursday ignited a firestorm within the party ranks. Workers argue that voters entrusted Kumar with a five-year mandate, and his shift to Rajya Sabha betrays that trust. Delegations of MLAs, MPs, and activists continue to flock to Patna, urging him to stay and continue serving Bihar’s masses.
This development raises questions about the future of Bihar’s leadership and JD(U)’s stability. As emotions run high, the party faces the challenge of reassuring its base while navigating this unexpected transition. Public sentiment underscores Kumar’s enduring popularity, making his departure all the more poignant.