Uncertainty Hangs Over Bihar as Nitish Faces Floor Test
Monday marks a crucial day for Bihar politics as the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government faces a floor test in the Assembly. With the magic number for majority set at 122, tensions escalate as the ruling Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) grapples with internal dissent.
Three JD(U) MLAs, including former minister Bima Bharti, skipped the vital Sunday meeting, adding to the six who absented themselves from a previous gathering. This raises concerns about potential cracks in the alliance, jeopardizing its current 128-member strength (JD(U): 45, BJP: 79, HAM-S: 4, Independent: 1).
The opposition Grand Alliance (GA), comprising the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, holds 115 seats, making any defections from the NDA potentially decisive. JD(U)’s decision to relocate its MLAs to a hotel near the Assembly further underscores the anxiety surrounding the vote.
While the NDA claims confidence in proving its majority, the recent MLAs’ absences and the simmering discontent within the JD(U) cast a shadow of uncertainty over the outcome. This floor test promises to be a nail-biting affair, with significant implications for the future of Bihar’s political landscape.
Here are key highlights:
Bihar’s political climate turned stormy on Monday as a no-confidence motion against Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary triggered accusations and anxieties. Here are the key takeaways:
RJD’s Internal Tremors: The opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) suffered a blow as three of its MLAs were seen amidst the ruling NDA benches, raising concerns about potential defections. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav voiced his apprehension, claiming these members aligned with the NDA before the crucial vote.
No-Confidence Showdown: The motion against the Speaker, filed by the NDA, became the focal point of the assembly session. This move adds another layer of complexity to the already tense political atmosphere.
NDA Clarifies Relocation: While rumors floated about the NDA shifting its MLAs to a hotel, JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal dismissed them, stating the party is simply in contact with the concerned members, and no political maneuvers are at play.
BJP’s “Training Camp”: Amidst the tense situation, the BJP’s relocation of its MLAs to a Bodh Gaya resort for a two-day stay sparked speculation. However, the party maintains it was solely for training purposes and not out of fear of poaching.
Opposition Fortifies Camp: The RJD MLAs have established camp at Tejashwi Yadav’s residence since Saturday, strengthening their unity through shared meals and bonfires. Videos circulating on social media showcase their attempt to project a picture of solidarity. Additionally, Congress MLAs joined them on Sunday, further bolstering the opposition’s presence.
The stage is set for a high-stakes political drama in Bihar, with accusations, speculations, and tight security measures creating a charged atmosphere. As the no-confidence vote unfolds, all eyes are glued to the assembly, waiting to see what unfolds in this crucial test of power and loyalty.
F&Q
- Which party filed the no-confidence motion against Speaker Awadh Bihari Chaudhary?
- A) National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
- B) Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)
- C) Janata Dal (United) (JD(U))
- D) Independent
- What was the reason BJP MLAs stayed at a resort in Bodh Gaya?
- A) For a training session
- B) Due to concerns about poaching
- C) To celebrate a political victory
- D) To attend a religious ceremony
- Where did RJD MLAs stay before the no-confidence vote?
- A) At a hotel near the Assembly
- B) At the Speaker’s residence
- C) At Tejashwi Yadav’s residence
- D) At their individual homes
- What did social media videos show about the RJD MLAs?
- A) Attending a formal meeting
- B) Engaging in protests and demonstrations
- C) Enjoying music and a bonfire
- D) Holding private discussions
- Which party raised concerns about its MLAs potentially defecting?
- A) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
- B) Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)
- C) Janata Dal (United) (JD(U))
- D) None of the above