Bihar Election: Lalu Yadav Invites Nitish Kumar For Talks

In a move that has stirred Bihar's political landscape ahead of the state’s Assembly elections, former Union Minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has extended an open invitation to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to rejoin the RJD-led alliance.

Speaking during the New Year celebrations in Bihar, Lalu Yadav expressed willingness to form an alliance with Nitish Kumar, stating, "If Nitish decides to form an alliance with us, our doors are always open for him." He further added, "If Nitish Kumar decides to come, why wouldn't we welcome him? Let’s stay together and work together."

When asked whether the RJD would welcome Nitish Kumar back into the alliance, Lalu confirmed, saying, "Yes, we will accept him. We will forgive all his mistakes; forgiveness is our duty."

Addressing questions about his leadership role within the RJD, Lalu remarked, "We take the decisions, but it doesn’t suit Nitish Kumar. He keeps leaving and coming back. If he returns again, we will keep him."

However, Lalu’s invitation was swiftly dismissed by JD(U) leader and Union Minister Lallan Singh. Speaking to the media, Singh said, "Forget about what Lalu Ji says. We (JD-U and BJP) are firmly united in the NDA."

When questioned about Lalu Yadav’s offer, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was accompanying newly-appointed Governor Arif Mohammed Khan after his oath-taking ceremony, chose not to comment. Instead, he folded his hands in response.

This development comes as the political atmosphere in Bihar heats up ahead of the state elections, with the RJD and JD(U) continuing to make moves to solidify alliances.​