Banners in Patna reignite talk of Nishant Kumar’s political debut

Speculation about the political debut of Nishant Kumar, son of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, intensified on Monday as JD(U) workers put up banners outside the party office in Patna, urging Nishant to “take charge of the party”.

Key JD(U) leaders have repeatedly said that the decision on entering politics rests entirely with Nishant himself.

Advertisement

However, JD(U) National Executive President Sanjay Jha’s recent statement has fuelled the speculation.

Speaking to journalists at Patna Airport on Friday, Jha had said that party members, well-wishers, and supporters want Nishant Kumar to join the party and take up an active role. But the decision about when he will join lies solely with him.

Notably, Nishant was present there while these statements were being made. Sanjay Jha’s words cannot be dismissed as mere sentiments of a regular party worker or supporter. He is the National Executive President of the party and a trusted aide of Nitish Kumar.

Although supporters had put up banners and posters in the past as well, urging Nishant to enter politics, this was the first time a senior office-bearer of the party had made such a statement.

Earlier, on the occasion of Nishant Kumar’s 44th birthday in July, former Union Minister and Rashtriya Lok Mocha (RLM) Chief Upendra Kushwaha had also joined the chorus, saying, “Nishant is the new hope of JD(U).”

The RLM chief had advised Nitish Kumar to continue leading the government but hand over the party’s leadership to Nishant. He had asserted that any delay could prove damaging for the JD(U), possibly a loss that may never be compensated.

Despite this, neither Nitish Kumar has ever spoken on this issue, nor has Nishant ever answered such questions. Whenever asked, he has simply laughed it off.

Political observers believe that if Nitish Kumar has not yet paved the way for his son Nishant Kumar to enter politics, then it is unlikely to happen while he remains active in politics. It would only be possible if Nitish steps away from active politics.

But, after becoming Chief Minister for the 10th time, his energy is remarkable. Decisions are being taken rapidly. Employment and jobs are at the top of his agenda. He is travelling, conducting review meetings. There is no indication from his side that he is planning to retire.