Nitish Kumar and his political future relies heavily on the BJP replicating its 2019 Lok Sabha success, a significant factor in his recent alliance switch. Kumar depends on his two-decade-long development work to attract voters and secure his tenure until the next assembly elections. Shrawan Kumar, a trusted ally and the minister for rural development, is vigorously campaigning to strengthen JD(U)’s position. Having won the Nalanda seat since 1995, Shrawan Kumar shared his campaign experiences.
Feedback from voters has been positive, especially in districts such as Banka, Katihar, Purunea, Nawada, Gaya, and Munger. Despite frequent alliance changes, Shrawan Kumar is confident that voters are not confused, thanks to extensive coordination meetings across different levels, which have resolved any discrepancies.
The campaign underscores development and the strong Modi-Nitish collaboration. Kumar emphasizes the achievements of their double-engine government, highlighting economic progress and significant state-level developments. On the issue of employment, he counters Tejashwi Yadav’s claims by pointing out that over seven lakh jobs have been created during Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Initiatives like the Jeevika scheme have empowered over 1.30 crore women, promoting self-reliance and reducing dependence on private lenders. Additionally, the state has created 30,000 police jobs for women.
A recent caste survey conducted during the JD(U)-RJD alliance revealed that 94 lakh households are jobless, prompting plans to connect these individuals with employment opportunities over the next five years. The government also plans to provide financial assistance for housing and toilets to improve living standards.
Shrawan Kumar anticipates that different issues will dominate the Lok Sabha and assembly elections. Confident in the work JD(U) has done in Bihar, he expects electoral benefits in the Vidhan Sabha polls, with significant initiatives like household and farm electrification nearing completion.
Addressing concerns about the BJP’s target of 400 plus seats, he reassures that the Constitution will remain unchanged, dismissing the opposition’s claims as ineffective. Despite previous attacks from Chirag Paswan during the assembly polls, current coordination remains smooth with joint rallies and conferences.
Shrawan Kumar dismisses speculation about the BJP potentially replacing Nitish Kumar as chief minister, stating that such a move would backfire on the BJP. He attributes Nitish Kumar’s popularity to his vision for the underprivileged, likening his work to that of Gandhi, Ambedkar, and other leaders. Kumar’s initiatives have significantly improved the living conditions of women, girls, and youth in Bihar.
Regarding Tejashwi Yadav’s campaign, Shrawan Kumar observes that it mainly attracts Yadav community members, unlike their inclusive rallies. He criticizes Yadav’s campaign for lacking new ideas and relying on the legacy of Lalu Prasad Yadav to mobilize support.
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