Patna: Leaders of the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) met at the chief minister’s residence in Patna to chart the party’s strategy following the formation of the new government, setting an ambitious target of winning 200 seats by 2030.
The meeting, chaired by former chief minister Nitish Kumar, lasted around 90 minutes and focused on organisational direction, leadership and future electoral strategy.
Nitish Promises Statewide Outreach
Addressing party MLAs, Nitish said he would tour the entire state and continue working as before. “Do not worry; everything will turn out well,” he told the gathering, according to leaders present.
There was, however, no discussion on any formal role for Nishant Kumar during the meeting, despite ongoing speculation about his political involvement.
Push For Grassroots Engagement
JD(U) leader Anant Singh said Kumar urged MLAs to remain active in their constituencies and work towards the party’s long-term goal of electoral expansion.
On the contentious issue of prohibition, Singh described his earlier remarks as a personal opinion, stating that he had merely reflected ground realities.
Three Key Resolutions Passed
According to senior leader Shrawon Kumar, the meeting adopted three resolutions:
- Welcoming the appointment of deputy chief ministers Vijay Kumar Chaudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav
- Authorising Nitish Kumar to decide the leader of the JD(U) legislative party
- Congratulating Nitish Kumar for his work during his two decades as chief minister
Discussions were also held on cabinet expansion, with indications that more JD(U) members could be inducted compared to the previous term.
Leadership Decision Awaited
The post of JD(U) legislative party leader remains vacant following Kumar’s move to the Rajya Sabha. Party sources suggest that deputy chief minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary is the frontrunner for the role, though no formal announcement has been made.
Ahead of the meeting, JD(U) MLA Maheshwar Hazari had suggested that Nishant Kumar should step into a leadership role, reflecting internal conversations about generational transition within the party.
Political Signals Amid Transition
The meeting comes at a time of shifting political equations in Bihar, with JD(U) leaders seeking to consolidate their position and prepare for future electoral challenges.
Party insiders said the emphasis remains on organisational unity, leadership clarity and grassroots mobilisation in the months ahead.
