Patna: A new political journey is about to begin in Bihar as Nishant Kumar, son of former chief minister Nitish Kumar, prepares to launch his Sadbhav Yatra across the state. The journey, which means “Goodwill Tour”, will begin on May 3 from West Champaran and is expected to continue in phases across different districts. Many people are seeing this as Nishant Kumar’s first major move into active public life and possibly into politics, following the path of his father.
According to Janata Dal (United) leaders, the first phase of the yatra will cover West Champaran on May 3 and 4. After that, the second phase will take place in Vaishali on 7 May. Party leaders say Nishant Kumar will meet local people, listen to their concerns and strengthen the bond between the party and the public. The tour is being planned on a large scale, with senior JD(U) leaders, MPs, MLAs and local workers expected to join him throughout the journey.
JD(U) state president Umesh Kushwaha announced the programme in Patna and praised Nishant Kumar highly. He said Nishant has all the qualities of his father, Nitish Kumar, and called him “the hope of 14 crore Biharis”. Kushwaha also said that legislative party leader Shravan Kumar and he himself will take part in the journey. According to him, the yatra will help the party connect with people more strongly ahead of future political challenges.
The name Sadbhav Yatra was reportedly chosen by Nishant Kumar himself. Party leaders say the word “Sadbhav” reflects the message of unity and taking everyone along together. The same campaign van used by Nitish Kumar during the Bihar assembly elections has been prepared for Nishant’s tour, making the journey even more symbolic. The choice of West Champaran as the starting point is also important, as Nitish Kumar has started many of his major public outreach programmes from Champaran in the past.
So far, Nishant Kumar does not hold any official position in the party or in the government. JD(U) leaders say he has personally declined to take up any formal post for now. However, the strong support being given to his yatra by the party has increased speculation that he may soon play a bigger role in Bihar politics. As the Sadbhav Yatra begins, many eyes will be on Nishant Kumar to see whether he can build his own political identity while walking in his father’s footsteps.
