'Desi Maduro Model’ in Bihar politics? Manoj Jha on Nitish Kumar's Rajya Sabha entry

Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has officially confirmed that he will file his nomination for the Rajya Sabha in the current election cycle, putting to rest weeks of speculation about his political future on Thursday. The 75-year-old veteran leader also assured full support to the new state Cabinet.

Manoj Jha compares Nitish Kumar's situation to the ‘Maduro Model’

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha drew an unusual comparison to captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro while reacting to the reports. Jha referred to the scenario as a “desi version of the Maduro model” or a case of “kidnapping by consent,” highlighting the unusual nature of the political developments.

“Look, what we want to say clearly is that from yesterday afternoon, this news suddenly started surfacing on every media platform. The way this news has emerged indicates that there is some truth behind it -- it is not merely speculation, rumour, or planted stories. In itself, this reflects the story of the end of a political chapter. What is important is that when I was asked for my first reaction yesterday, I said that many times even a 'desi' version can resemble the 'Maduro' model -- the Venezuelan premier's model of kidnapping by consent, captivity with consent, where the consent is not given by the individual concerned but by those around him,” Manoj Jha told ANI.

JD(U) ministers call Nitish’s Rajya Sabha move an internal matter

Bihar Minister Ramkripal Yadav stated that the decision is an internal matter of the Janata Dal (United) and emphasised that Nitish Kumar’s decision is “paramount.”

Speaking to ANI, Yadav said, “This is an internal matter of the Janata Dal (United), and they will make the decision--those led by Nitish Kumar--and his decision is paramount.”

He also took a swipe at the opposition, adding, “The opposition is troubled because they are getting nothing. Every day, the opposition's credibility is eroding, so they are very distressed. The NDA is united, and all are working together to run the government. In the last 21 years, under Nitish Kumar's leadership, Bihar has progressed and developed.”

Rajya Sabha Elections scheduled for March 16

The Election Commission of India announced that polling for the upcoming Rajya Sabha biennial elections will be held on March 16, with vote counting the same day at 5 pm. These elections will fill 37 seats across 10 states, including Bihar.

Also Read| Nitish Kumar’s Rajya Sabha move sparks question: Who will be Bihar’s next CM?

Nitish Kumar’s statement to the public

Nitish Kumar addressed the public via X, saying:

“For more than two decades, you have consistently placed your trust and support in me, and it is on the strength of that trust that we have served Bihar and all of you with complete dedication. It was the power of your trust and support that has enabled Bihar today to present a new dimension of development and dignity. For this, I have expressed my gratitude to you many times in the past as well. From the very beginning of my parliamentary journey, there has been a desire in my heart to become a member of both Houses of the Bihar Legislature as well as both Houses of Parliament. In keeping with this aspiration, I seek to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in the elections being held this time. I want to assure you with complete honesty that my relationship with you will continue in the future as well, and my resolve to work together with you to build a developed Bihar will remain steadfast. The new government that will be formed will have my full cooperation and guidance.”

Nitish Kumar is the longest-serving Chief Minister of Bihar, having held the position for over two decades. His transition to the Rajya Sabha marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the state.

ANI