Is Tejashwi Yadav’s RJD breaking into factions? Nitish Kumar’s JDU claims 18 of RJD MLAs are….

Bihar politics update: Days after Nitish Kumar’s viral video pulling down the niqab of a Muslim woman went viral, speculation about political manoeuvring has once again heated up Bihar’s corridors of power. With the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) at the centre of fresh buzz, a “big game” is said to be in the making. Reports have it that several RJD MLAs may switch sides. According to media reports, the Janata Dal (United) has fuelled these discussions, asserting that as many as 18 RJD legislators are in touch with it. The update is important as it comes amid the backdrop of five Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar falling vacant next year, a development that has sharpened political calculations within the NDA.

What is Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) claiming in Bihar?

The JDU has openly claimed that the NDA is eyeing all five Rajya Sabha seats, two currently held by JDU, two by RJD and one by the BJP. As per media reports, JDU MLC Neeraj Kumar has said that ‘many MLAs of the Grand Alliance, especially RJD, are in touch with us, are restless and in contact with NDA leaders, adding that the mandate is clearly in favour of the NDA.

More trouble for RJD

In the recent update, JDU spokesperson Manish Yadav went further, alleging that the RJD is leaderless and that Tejashwi Yadav lacks leadership skills, resulting in frustration within the party. Echoing this line, BJP MLA Engineer Shailendra claimed that several RJD MLAs are impressed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership and are keen to join the NDA.

According to multiple media reports, JDU is also eyeing a third Rajya Sabha seat. With 85 MLAs currently, JDU would become the largest party in the Assembly if 18 RJD MLAs defect, taking its tally to 103. This arithmetic could help JDU target an additional seat with support from BJP and Chirag Paswan’s party. Readers should also note that the RJD, however, has dismissed these claims.