JD(U) may break ranks with Oppn

The JD(U) is likely to break ranks with the Opposition over the Presidential poll to support NDA nominee Ram Nath Kovind.

If the JD(U) has its compulsions, Uttar Pradesh-based parties, the SP and the BSP, are also in a dilemma over Kovind’s candidature as they do not want to be seen as opposing someone from the state who also belongs to the Dalit community.

Part of Opposition

“A decision would be taken on Wednesday. We are part of the Opposition and will continue to be part of it, irrespective of the decision on the Presidential poll,” said a senior JD(U) leader.

“Nothing much should be read into as far as the Opposition unity is considered,” he added.Some Opposition parties are also against the move to pit a Dalit against a Dalit.

A source said Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar informed alliance leaders that his party could not oppose a “Mahadalit” and also that he had a good working equation with Kovind during his tenure as Bihar governor. Nitish also does not consider Kovind as a “hardcore RSS man”.