Rashtriya Janata Dal Criticizes Nitish Kumar Amid Bharat Ratna Controversy

RJD’s Jibe at Bihar Chief Minister

NEW DELHI: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) made headlines on Sunday with a sharp critique of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, coinciding with increasing calls to award him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor.

Sudhakar Singh’s Remarks

RJD MP Sudhakar Singh commented on Kumar’s lengthy tenure as Chief Minister, stating that despite his health challenges, Kumar has dedicated 20 years to serving Bihar. “Nitish Kumar is undoubtedly a ‘Ratna’. There is no doubt about that. But I cannot say which one,” he remarked.

Acknowledgment of Kumar’s Challenges

Singh emphasized that managing a government for two decades while dealing with illness demonstrates Kumar’s resilience and commitment to leadership.

Support for Bharat Ratna

The push for Bharat Ratna for Nitish Kumar is backed not only by his party but also by allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and Chirag Paswan have voiced their support, calling Kumar a leader who has provided exemplary governance over these years.

Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Statement

Taking to social media platform X, former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi expressed his hopes for Kumar’s recognition, saying: “Bharat Ratna Nitish Kumar Ji… How wonderful it would sound to hear those words, wouldn’t it? We have complete faith that the esteemed Prime Minister will once again leave the nation in awe by deciding to bestow the Bharat Ratna upon Bihar’s esteemed chief minister.”

KC Tyagi’s Plea for Immediate Recognition

JD(U) leader KC Tyagi also advocated for Kumar to receive the Bharat Ratna while he is still alive. He highlighted that past recipients like Chaudhary Charan Singh and Karpoori Thakur were honored posthumously. “Nitish Kumar is one of the most fantastic leaders associated with the socialist movement who is still alive,” Tyagi stated.

A Letter to the Prime Minister

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Tyagi referred to Kumar as a "precious gem" of the socialist movement deserving of the highest civilian award. He reminded the Prime Minister of the March 30, 2024, ceremony where past leaders were honored.

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