The Janata Dal United’s (JD(U)) national executive meeting commenced at the Constitution Club in Delhi, attended by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, JD(U) national president Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh, and other party leaders. Amidst rumors of a potential leadership change, Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary dismissed speculations, affirming that the present national president, Lalan Singh, is effectively leading the party.
Minister Choudhary, expressing surprise at queries regarding his potential elevation, stated, “You are the first person telling me this.” He emphasized that Lalan Singh is the current JD(U) national president and is performing well, dismissing any need for changes in leadership.
Choudhary acknowledged that the matter might be discussed within the party during the meeting to address any concerns. Senior party leader KC Tyagi highlighted that the meeting would cover regular discussions, including alliances in states and the current political and financial landscape.
Tyagi clarified earlier reports, stating, “I reject all rumors.” JD(U) President Lalan Singh reaffirmed that the national executive meeting is routine and stated, “Nitish Kumar is our supreme leader, and the JD(U) is one and will always remain one.”
In response to questions about potential party changes for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Tyagi noted that internal party matters are not commented on publicly. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also dismissed rumors of Lalan Singh’s resignation.
The national executive meeting follows the recent crucial INDIA alliance meeting in Delhi, with the JD(U) engaging in discussions with the Congress on alliance configurations for the state. While some JD(U) leaders advocate for Nitish Kumar to lead the INDIA bloc, Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal have endorsed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge as a prospective PM candidate.
Posters featuring Bihar CM Nitish Kumar with the slogan ‘Pradesh ne pehchana, ab desh bhi pehchanega’ (The state of Bihar recognized him, now the nation will) have been displayed at the national executive meeting venue.
