Despite intense speculation over his age, health and political longevity, Nitish Kumar once again emerged as the defining figure of the Bihar assembly elections 2025. From claims that he was too unwell to continue, to predictions that he would not return as chief minister, Nitish remained at the centre of political chatter throughout the campaign. Even strategist Prashant Kishor staked his political career on JD(U)’s performance, promising to quit politics if the party crossed 25 seats and if Nitish became CM again.
As results declared on November 14 revealed, the JD(U) not only defied these projections but surpassed them convincingly. Crossing the 80-seat mark in the 243-member Assembly—just four short of the BJP’s 89—Nitish is now set to take oath as chief minister for the tenth time, as the NDA decimated the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan.
Nitish’s continued electoral relevance also reinforces his importance at the national level. His 12 MPs played a pivotal role in ensuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi retained power in 2024, when the BJP fell short of a majority in the Lok Sabha.
Chirag Paswan Signals Renewed Alignment with Nitish
A major indicator of Nitish’s enduring influence came a day after the results, when Chirag Paswan, Union minister and LJP(RV) chief, visited him at his Patna residence. With 19 seats, Chirag’s support is crucial in the upcoming government formation, and he is reportedly seeking a deputy chief minister position for his party — a post that would require Nitish’s nod.
Chirag highlighted the growing synergy between JD(U) and LJP(RV), noting their mutual support during voting. He dismissed allegations of a rift, calling them part of a “false narrative” propagated by opponents.
NDA’s Confidence Returns to Nitish’s Governance Model
Prime Minister Modi echoed this sentiment in his victory speech, crediting Nitish’s “good governance” as a key driver of the NDA’s sweeping win. Although the alliance was initially cautious about projecting Nitish as its chief ministerial face, emphasis on his leadership intensified as polling progressed.
Once again, even amid speculation and criticism, Nitish Kumar — at 74 — proved he remains the main character in Bihar politics, steering JD(U) and the NDA to another decisive mandate.