Ashok Chaudhary Appointed National General Secretary of JD(U) Amid Controversy

Chirag Gupta

Patna: Rural Works Minister Ashok Chaudhary, recently embroiled in controversy, has been promoted in the JD(U) party to the post of National General Secretary. The decision came just days after Chaudhary faced criticism over a social media post. This appointment, made by party leader Nitish Kumar, highlights the increasing focus on Dalit leadership within the party.

Chaudhary’s promotion comes after recent tensions, including a post that many linked to comments on Nitish Kumar’s age. Despite being summoned to clarify the situation, Chaudhary maintained his stance, sharing a photo with the Chief Minister and dismissing the speculation. However, the incident sparked a broader debate about Kumar’s leadership.

This is not the first time Chaudhary has faced internal opposition. In August, he drew criticism for remarks about the Bhumihar community, which led to significant backlash from party members. He later clarified his statement, emphasizing his personal connections to the community and releasing a video of his comments.

Another notable controversy occurred in 2023 when Chaudhary defied party instructions from Lalan Singh regarding visits to the Barbigha constituency. Despite the disagreements, Nitish Kumar has consistently supported Chaudhary, further solidifying his position within the party.

Chaudhary’s rise within the party has been steady, with Nitish Kumar ensuring his growing influence despite controversies. His elevation to National General Secretary follows a broader reshuffle in the party’s leadership, and it reflects the efforts of Nitish Kumar to bolster Dalit representation. With his new role, Chaudhary is expected to have a significant impact on party dynamics in the upcoming elections.