Patna: Tensions escalated within Bihar’s ruling Mahagathbandhan government as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, in a public address at a centenary birth anniversary event for Jannayak Karpoori Thakur on Tuesday, openly criticized nepotism. The remarks, perceived as a veiled attack on his ally and RJD Chief Lalu Prasad, have stirred speculations of discord within the alliance. The event, organized by Nitish’s party, JD (U), took place at the Veterinary College Ground in Patna.
Nitish, without explicitly naming anyone, took a veiled dig at political leaders known for family-centric politics, emphasizing that Karpoori Thakur never thrust his family into the spotlight. He contrasted this with the contemporary trend of expanding families for personal gains, stating, “Today people just keep expanding their families. I have also never taken my family forward.”
Addressing the prevalent practice of grooming sons as leaders, Nitish asserted that while some leaders boast about their family’s achievements, Thakur refrained from leveraging his position for personal gains. “He did not take his family forward. But today, people keep saying anything. However, let them speak; it doesn’t make any difference to us,” Nitish remarked.
Expressing satisfaction over the posthumous conferment of the Bharat Ratna on Karpoori Thakur, Nitish commended the Narendra Modi-led government for fulfilling their longstanding request. Despite not receiving a personal call from the Prime Minister, Nitish extended congratulations and acknowledged the honor bestowed upon Thakur. “Congratulations to the Prime Minister,” he added.
Seizing the opportunity, Nitish urged the Central Government to address another longstanding demand—the special state status for Bihar. He highlighted Karpoori Thakur’s contributions, including the prohibition of liquor and various initiatives benefiting backward and extremely backward classes. Nitish expressed disappointment over Thakur’s removal despite these efforts.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to expand the scope of reservation across the country, aligning with Karpoori’s commitment to social justice. In a final declaration, Nitish affirmed that his party, JD (U), staunchly rejects nepotism.
