Patna: Speculation is mounting over the potential return of former Union Minister RCP Singh to the Janata Dal (United), following a public appearance alongside Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Singh, who was expelled from the party, did not rule out rejoining JD(U), sparking political chatter in Bihar.
The speculation follows Sunday’s Dahi-Chura feast organised by the Patel Seva Sangh, which both leaders attended. While Singh and Nitish arrived separately and were not seen together on stage, it was Singh’s remarks after the event that have drawn attention.
Speaking to the media, Singh referred to CM as his “guardian” and emphasised that their long-standing relationship transcends any particular post or occasion. Asked whether he would return to the JD(U) after Kharmas – a period traditionally considered inauspicious for new beginnings – Singh replied cryptically: “You will find out soon.” He also publicly supported calls for Kumar to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
A political career rooted in Bihar
RCP Singh, hails from Mustafapur in Nalanda district, the same region as CM Nitish, and belongs to the Kurmi community. He began his career as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer in the Uttar Pradesh cadre, joining the bureaucracy in 1984 after graduating with a BA (Honours) in History from Patna Science College.
Singh’s political ascent is closely intertwined with Nitish. In 1996, he was noticed by him while serving as private secretary to Union Minister Beni Prasad Verma. He later became CM’s special secretary during his tenure as Railway Minister, and, after Nitish became Bihar Chief Minister in 2005, Singh was appointed Principal Secretary, serving until 2010. His influence in the JD(U) grew steadily, eventually becoming the party’s number two leader and national president.
However, Singh resigned on August 7 amid accusations of closeness to the BJP and allegedly attempting to divide the JD(U). After taking voluntary retirement from the IAS in 2010, he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by Kumar. Singh also pursued higher education at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
