JD-U, RJD reach an agreement, to discuss portfolio soon

Patna: As Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have decided to come together to form a new government in Bihar, sources say leaders of both the parties are working on the “board contours of their understanding”.

The sources added that Nitish Kumar would meet RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav today evening, along with Congress and other non-NDA parties, to discuss the modalities of the new government. It is pretty clear that Nitish will lead the new dispensation as chief minister and the 32-year-old RJD politician as deputy chief minister.

According to an NDTV report, the assignment of all ministries will be Nitish’s prerogative; the Speaker will be selected from RJD. Other Opposition parties like the Left and the Congress are also going to be part of the new government with the latter likely to get the task of keeping the new coalition intact.

However, it is said that much depends on the Governor’s actions after he meets with Nitish in the evening.

Nitish Kumar today morning held a meeting with his legislators before announcing to quit the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Nitish accused BJP of working to split the JD-U. RJD leader Tejaswhi also met with his MLAs to formally agree on reuniting with Nitish. After the meeting, a source from the RJD told ANI: “If the BJP attempts to create instability or tries to push for President’s Rule, we’ll give them a befitting reply.”

On the other hand, BJP held a meeting of its leader at the residence of outgoing deputy CM Tarkishore Prasad in Patna. The BJP refuted the allegation of trying to split JD-U and said that it wants Nitish to continue as CM. State minister and BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain told ANI: “We strengthen our own party, we don’t weaken any other party. The party leadership will give an official statement in Patna. We’ve worked honestly for the business and employment of people of Bihar. The party will make a comment, I won’t”.

Union Minister Kaushal Kishore also tweeted in support of CM Nitish, writing that the BJP wants Nitish Kumar to continue as CM. – INDIA NEWS STREAM