Nitish Kumar quits as Bihar CM

Bringing down curtains on the fortnight-long political uncertainty in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday evening resigned from his post. “I have tendered my resignation to Governor Keshri Nath Tripathi as it was not possible for me to continue as Bihar CM under the present circumstances,” said Nitish soon after coming out of the Raj Bhavan.

The Governor has accepted his resignation but asked him to continue till a new Government is sworn in.

Nitish, who was apparently peeved over his deputy Tejashwi Yadav not quitting despite CBI lodging an FIR against him (Lalu’s son) in a corruption case, did not rule out forming the next government with the help of his erstwhile ally – the BJP.

“That is for you to speculate. But I am willing to work with anyone who wants to ensure Bihar’s rapid growth,” said Nitish, dropping ample hints that he was not averse to joining hands with the BJP leaders with whom he was “more comfortable” in his earlier avatar as CM from 2005 to 2013.

Nitish’s surprise move on Wednesday may have caught RJD supremo Lalu Prasad unawares who, this evening, left for Ranchi where he has to appear before a court for three consecutive days in connection with hearing in fodder scam cases.

Reiterating that he won’t ever compromise on his assiduoulsy-cultivated image of a clean politician, Nitish said, “I, on my part, tried my level best that Tejashwi should come clean on the charges made by the CBI and other investigating agencies. I spoke to Congress leaders too. But no amount of persuasion and mediation could make RJD leaders change their decision. We Socialists have been told by our mentors that the focus should be on governance, not greed.... Still, I don’t want to blame anyone. I was not comfortable working in this environment, so I have put in my papers.”

BJP’S Unconditional Support to Nitish
Meanwhile, the BJP decided to extend unconditional support to the Government headed by Nitish Kumar. This was decided here at a meeting chaired by former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi.
“Lalu has not only ruined his career, he has jeopardised his sons’ political career too,” said Modi, while congratulating Nitish for dumping the RJD. Later Modi talked to Nitish over phone and extended his party’s unconditional support to him, although a formal decision (on support) is likely to be announced by the BJP central leadership.


Present position in Bihar Assembly:

Total Members: 243

GRAND ALLIANCE
RJD: 80
JD (U): 71
Cong: 27
..................
Total: 178

NDA
BJP: 53
LJP: 2
RLSP: 2
HAM: 1
..............
Total: 58

Ind & Others: 7