NITISH KUMAR: LOVE FOR THE CHAIR OR INTOXICATION OF POWER

23-JULY-ENG 9

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA------------------------The biggest showman of Bihar politics, Nitish Kumar, is once again in the limelight. He has got the title of 'Paltu Ram' in 'Mohabbat', because for him changing alliances has become like changing clothes. But this time the matter has become a bit more heated. The question is, does Nitish Babu really want to remain the Chief Minister of Bihar, or is there a conspiracy to sideline him by luring him with a 'high' post?

Inside reports tell that Nitish Kumar's chair is no longer as strong as before. He is the Chief Minister, but the key is in someone else's hand.

BJP has established its feet in Bihar, and now it wants to become the 'big brother' by sidelining 'younger brother' Nitish Kumar. The dream of putting its own man on the Chief Minister's chair is clearly visible in the eyes of BJP. In such a situation, preparations are underway to show Nitish the way out of Bihar by showing him the 'laddu' of the post of Vice President. Only time will tell whether this is a ploy of the BJP or Nitish's last bet.

Even at the age of 73, Nitish Kumar's hunger for power has not diminished. But the question is, for how long? Is he really in power for the betterment of Bihar, or is this just the result of his intoxication of power? The post of Vice President can give him a comfortable 'retirement package', where he will remain 'respected' without any hassle.

There was a time when Nitish Kumar was called 'Sushasan Babu'. But now the tag of 'Paltu Ram' has stuck to him like Fevicol. His image has been tarnished so much by his frequent flip-flops that now he will have to take a big step to save his legacy. Perhaps by becoming the Vice President, he wants to wash away the stains of his political horoscope.

Nitish Kumar's next step will decide not only his political career, but also the future of Bihar. If he becomes the Vice President, his chapter in Bihar politics will end, and it will become easier for the BJP to capture the throne of Bihar. But if he does not agree, then the pressure of BJP can increase so much that his chair may start shaking.The people of Bihar are also watching all this. Is Nitish Kumar changing sides just for the chair, or does he really have Bihar in his heart?