Nitish Kumar’s Election Surge Shakes Opposition, But Four Key Questions Loom for Next Term

Patna: The 2025 Bihar Assembly election results not only reinforced NDA’s overwhelming victory but also confirmed that the “Tiger” is very much alive. Nitish Kumar decisively countered doubts about his health and political vigor, turning speculation into a landslide validated by the EVMs.

Defying Bad Weather, Nitish Hits the Campaign Trail
During the peak of election campaigning, a sudden spell of heavy rain on October 31 brought most political campaigns to a halt. Helicopters remained grounded, and many leaders stayed confined to their homes for two days. Yet, Nitish Kumar covered over 500 kilometers during the same period, reaching out to the public in person.

Even amidst adverse weather, Nitish engaged with voters, visiting nearly two dozen constituencies and conducting roadshows. In Jhanjharpur, Madhubani district, he stayed at party executive president Sanjay Jha’s residence. On that day, no other leader ventured out, making Nitish’s efforts the talk of the state.

Answering Health Speculations with Action
Nitish’s proactive campaigning silenced lingering doubts about his health and energy, earning him the reputation: “The Tiger is alive.” The electoral victory has further cemented his influence within the party and among voters.

Voter Loyalty Proves Decisive
Nitish’s core supporters remained steadfastly loyal, a factor that has consistently helped him overcome political challenges. In 2020, he had won only 43 seats; this time, the sweeping win makes it almost certain that he will be appointed Chief Minister again. Although BJP, as the largest party within the NDA, will assert its influence, Nitish’s dominance and voter trust reduce the likelihood of internal challenges.

Four Key Questions for Nitish Kumar’s New Term:

1. Can He Maintain Control Over the Government?
   Nitish is known for running a hands-on administration without interference, but this term will feature a stronger BJP, limiting the free rein he previously enjoyed.
2. Will He Identify a Successor?
   At 74 years old, and with over 15 years in power, Nitish faces questions regarding leadership succession within his party, as he has yet to designate a clear second-in-command or next-generation leader.
3. Can He Preserve the Image of Good Governance?
   While Nitish has won decisively, governance challenges persist. Populist promises may have reduced anti-incumbency this election, but sustaining focus on good governance will remain crucial.
4. Will He Reconsider Prohibition Policies?
   Introduced in 2015, prohibition initially received widespread support, particularly from women. However, illegal liquor and financial losses have grown, and Bihar’s economic crisis demands a clear, strategic approach to alcohol policy.

Nitish Kumar’s new term promises both continuity and significant decisions on governance, leadership succession, and economic policies, keeping the political landscape of Bihar under close watch.

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Patna: The 2025 Bihar Assembly election results not only reinforced NDA’s overwhelming victory but also confirmed that the “Tiger” is very much alive. Nitish Kumar decisively countered doubts about his health and political vigor, turning speculation into a landslide validated by the EVMs.

Defying Bad Weather, Nitish Hits the Campaign Trail
During the peak of election campaigning, a sudden spell of heavy rain on October 31 brought most political campaigns to a halt. Helicopters remained grounded, and many leaders stayed confined to their homes for two days. Yet, Nitish Kumar covered over 500 kilometers during the same period, reaching out to the public in person.

Even amidst adverse weather, Nitish engaged with voters, visiting nearly two dozen constituencies and conducting roadshows. In Jhanjharpur, Madhubani district, he stayed at party executive president Sanjay Jha’s residence. On that day, no other leader ventured out, making Nitish’s efforts the talk of the state.

Answering Health Speculations with Action
Nitish’s proactive campaigning silenced lingering doubts about his health and energy, earning him the reputation: “The Tiger is alive.” The electoral victory has further cemented his influence within the party and among voters.

Voter Loyalty Proves Decisive
Nitish’s core supporters remained steadfastly loyal, a factor that has consistently helped him overcome political challenges. In 2020, he had won only 43 seats; this time, the sweeping win makes it almost certain that he will be appointed Chief Minister again. Although BJP, as the largest party within the NDA, will assert its influence, Nitish’s dominance and voter trust reduce the likelihood of internal challenges.

Four Key Questions for Nitish Kumar’s New Term:

1. Can He Maintain Control Over the Government?
   Nitish is known for running a hands-on administration without interference, but this term will feature a stronger BJP, limiting the free rein he previously enjoyed.
2. Will He Identify a Successor?
   At 74 years old, and with over 15 years in power, Nitish faces questions regarding leadership succession within his party, as he has yet to designate a clear second-in-command or next-generation leader.
3. Can He Preserve the Image of Good Governance?
   While Nitish has won decisively, governance challenges persist. Populist promises may have reduced anti-incumbency this election, but sustaining focus on good governance will remain crucial.
4. Will He Reconsider Prohibition Policies?
   Introduced in 2015, prohibition initially received widespread support, particularly from women. However, illegal liquor and financial losses have grown, and Bihar’s economic crisis demands a clear, strategic approach to alcohol policy.

Nitish Kumar’s new term promises both continuity and significant decisions on governance, leadership succession, and economic policies, keeping the political landscape of Bihar under close watch.