During a recent meeting of the INDIA bloc, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was appointed as the alliance's chairperson. Sources indicate that Kumar was offered the convenor role, which he chose to decline. This decision has fueled speculation about his commitment to the opposition alliance and the possibility of re-aligning with the NDA.
Kumar's political journey has been marked by strategic alliances. In 2017, he parted ways with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) to join the NDA, only to exit the alliance in 2022 and form a government with the RJD and Congress in Bihar. His recent actions suggest a potential shift back to the NDA, a move that could significantly impact the political landscape ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], Kumar's party, has dismissed rumors of his departure from the INDIA bloc. Party leaders emphasize his commitment to uniting and strengthening the opposition alliance. They highlight resolutions from recent meetings authorizing Kumar to lead seat-sharing negotiations and spearhead a nationwide campaign against the BJP.
Despite these assurances, the political environment remains volatile. The Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), a constituent of the INDIA bloc, recently joined the NDA, citing dissatisfaction within the opposition alliance. Such defections raise questions about the cohesion and future of the INDIA bloc.
Analysts suggest that Kumar's declining of the convenor role could be a strategic move, allowing him to maintain flexibility in a rapidly changing political environment. His decision may also reflect concerns about the effectiveness and unity of the INDIA bloc, especially with the general elections approaching.
The BJP has been actively seeking to strengthen its position by encouraging defections from the opposition. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh accused the BJP of attempting to create "mini-implosions" within the INDIA bloc, aiming to weaken the alliance's collective strength.
Kumar's political maneuvers are being closely watched, given his history of shifting alliances based on political expediency. His decisions in the coming weeks could influence the strategies of both the opposition and the ruling party as they prepare for the electoral battle in 2024.