After 25–30: Who After Nitish? Legacy Challenge Looms Large in Both Camps

New Delhi:
The 2025 Bihar Assembly election may have delivered a sweeping victory for the NDA, but it has also opened up a new chapter of internal ambitions and unavoidable questions. For the Mahagathbandhan, the defeat is only the beginning of the challenges ahead. In both camps, one issue now stands out clearly — the battle for leadership and political succession.

Nitish Kumar’s Final Term?

The Vacuum After 75

The NDA secured a record mandate, with Nitish Kumar receiving widespread credit for the victory. Yet, the common perception within political circles is that this could be the 75-year-old leader’s last electoral battle. As the new term begins, discussions on Nitish Kumar’s legacy and succession are expected to intensify.

Within the JDU, there is no leader who matches Nitish’s popularity or statewide acceptance. His son, Nishant Kumar, was gradually introduced into political conversations before the elections, but he has not shown serious engagement yet. The question of “Who after Nitish?” now hangs heavily over the ruling party.

BJP’s Leadership Conundrum

The BJP, despite its impressive performance, is also facing a leadership clarity crisis in Bihar. Operating for years under Nitish Kumar’s shadow meant the party never nurtured a strong, independent statewide face.

This vacuum opens the door for other NDA partners.

Chirag Paswan in the Race

Sources: Wants Deputy CM Position**

LJP (R) chief Chirag Paswan has long aspired to take center stage in Bihar politics. With a favourable age profile and strong social backing, he sees this moment as strategically advantageous.

According to sources, Chirag is pushing for the Deputy Chief Minister’s post, hoping to position himself for an even larger role in the coming years. NDA, therefore, may be heading towards a competitive succession struggle once Nitish steps aside.

RJD’s Leadership Crisis

Muslim Vote Erosion and Family Rift**

The RJD, led by Tejashwi Yadav, suffered a severe defeat, raising serious concerns about its future. Since 2004, the party has not secured power on its own, and this election revealed another worrying trend — a drift of Muslim voters away from the RJD.

Adding to the troubles is the internal conflict within the Lalu Prasad family, which has only deepened doubts about the party’s stability. The big question now is — who will claim the Opposition space?

Congress and PK Eye the Opposition Space

A significant section within the Congress party believes that aligning with the RJD caused more harm than benefit. But if Congress intends to claim the Opposition space, it must first build a credible state-level leadership, something it has struggled with for years.

Meanwhile, political strategist-turned-leader Prashant Kishor (PK) is quietly eyeing the same space. Though his Jan Suraaj party failed to make a major electoral impact in its debut, it has succeeded in establishing visibility. If PK continues to strengthen his grassroots connect, he could emerge as a strong alternative in the future.

RJD Still the Natural Claimant — If It Can Rebuild

Despite setbacks, the RJD remains the largest Opposition force structurally. If Tejashwi Yadav undertakes serious course correction, reorganises the party, and reconnects with traditional voters, the RJD may regain its primacy in the Opposition landscape.