Lalan Singh Steps Down, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Takes Over As JD(U) National President Ahead Of INDI Alliance Seat-Sharing Talks

Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, the national president of Janata Dal (United), has proposed his resignation at the national executive meeting in New Delhi, as per sources quoted by Hindustan Times.

The state president of JD(U), Umesh Kushwaha, stated that the party's national executive asked Kumar to assume control of the party for the greater benefit of both the party and the country.

The crucial conference commenced today (29 December) in New Delhi, accompanied by circulating speculations that Lalan Singh is considering resigning from his senior position to pave the way for the comeback of Bihar's chief minister, Nitish Kumar.

Earlier, Singh reasserted Nitish Kumar's leadership in the party, dismissing rumors about his future and alleged disagreements with Kumar as propaganda initiated by the BJP.

He sarcastically mentioned that if he were to resign, he would consult the media on the content of his resignation letter, even suggesting they could obtain the draft from the BJP office.

"Nitish Kumar remains the head of our party, the Janata Dal (United), which is unified and will continue to be so. Should I need to step down, I will seek your counsel," he declared.

The executive's decisions will receive approval at the JD(U)'s national council meeting, which is scheduled later in the day.

Kumar has consistently stated that significant gatherings in the nation's capital are standard yearly events.

The chief minister conveyed to the press in Patna on Thursday that these meetings occur annually and are a regular part of the schedule, stressing there's nothing out of the ordinary or specific about them.

KC Tyagi, a senior party leader who attended the national executive meeting, stated that the meeting would be a standard one, with discussions also covering the dynamics of alliances in various states.

KC Tyagi announced that during the JD(U) national executive meeting, they will discuss the country's current political landscape and financial climate. Additionally, the topic of seat sharing for expansion into other states will also be on the agenda.

The JD(U) plays a significant role in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive (INDI) Alliance faction, which was established to challenge the BJP, led by Narendra Modi, in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.