Nitish Kumar Claims Credit for Making Lalu Yadav CM in 1990

In a debate over the Governor's speech in the Bihar Assembly, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar uttered a dramatic political observation, saying he was the architect of Lalu Prasad Yadav's being made the Chief Minister in 1990.

"Even the people of Lalu Yadav's own caste (Yadav) did not want to make him CM, but I supported him. I was the one who appointed your father (Lalu Yadav) as the Chief Minister," Kumar said addressing Tejashwi Yadav through the Speaker on Tuesday.

Nitish Kumar was key in Janata Dal politics in 1990 when there was a leadership battle between Ram Sundar Das and Lalu Yadav. Thinking about his recent flip back to the NDA, he explained his exit from the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan, citing earlier clashes.

He blamed Tejashwi Yadav and the RJD for spreading instability while they were in their alliance, saying, "I twice took Tejashwi Yadav to form a government, but both times, they made a nuisance of themselves. That is why I parted ways and went back to the NDA."

Kumar's comments have stirred up an old political incident in Bihar, making things hot between the JD(U) and RJD before coming elections.

Taking a severe swipe at Tejashwi Yadav, Kumar brushed him aside as "a child" who "knows nothing." His words triggered a sparring match in the Assembly, and the opposition was left with no other option but to stage a walkout.

He also lashed out at RJD's rule prior to 2005, remembering, "When they were ruling, people wouldn't venture out of their homes in the evenings. There were no good roads, no development, and there used to be constant Hindu-Muslim conflicts. When I became CM in 2005, my first action was to enclose graveyards to promote communal peace."

Enumerating the success of his government, Kumar said, "Since I became CM, Bihar made notable gains in education, health, and infrastructure. We have provided reservations for women in govt jobs in 2016. Prior to polls, 12 lakh youths will be employed. 24 lakh youths are working today, and our govt has notified madrasas and also given money to deserted Muslim women.

As Kumar continued his speech, opposition members walked out in protest. Watching them leave, he remarked, “They fled because they know they stand no chance in the election.”