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Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) Ends Alliance with BJP in Manipur
In a significant political move, Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] has withdrawn its support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Manipur. This decision comes amid growing tensions between the two parties, further straining their alliance in the northeastern state.
“Decision to Withdraw Support”
Announcing the decision, a senior JD(U) leader stated, “We have decided to withdraw our support from the BJP-led government in Manipur as our core principles and priorities no longer align with theirs.”
The move is seen as part of JD(U)’s broader strategy to distance itself from the BJP at both the state and national levels, a shift that began with Nitish Kumar’s decision to break ties with the BJP in Bihar.
Impact on Political Dynamics in Manipur
With the JD(U) pulling out of the alliance, the political landscape in Manipur is likely to see significant changes. Although the BJP retains a majority in the state assembly, the withdrawal of JD(U)’s support reflects growing dissent within regional parties against the BJP’s dominance.
JD(U) leaders have cited various reasons for the decision, including differences in governance priorities and alleged neglect of the northeastern region in policy implementation. They emphasized their commitment to representing the aspirations of the people of Manipur and ensuring inclusive development.
Broader Implications for BJP-JD(U) Relations
This development further highlights the widening rift between the BJP and JD(U), which were once strong allies. The split in Bihar last year set the tone for similar decisions in other states where the JD(U) has a presence.
As political alliances shift ahead of upcoming elections, JD(U)’s decision to withdraw support in Manipur underscores the evolving nature of state politics and its impact on national-level equations.
The withdrawal marks another chapter in JD(U)’s efforts to reassert its independent identity and strengthen its position as a key regional player in Indian politics. All eyes will now be on how this move influences the political landscape in Manipur and beyond.
