Nitish Kumar meets Vashistha Narain Singh in Patna; visits JD(U) office

Patna, June 29 (IANS) Former Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) National President Nitish Kumar appeared unusually active on Monday, making unscheduled visits to veteran party leader Vashishtha Narain Singh’s home and later to his party’s headquarters in Patna.

The developments have sparked fresh speculation in Bihar’s political circles about possible organisational or political decisions within the party.

Nitish Kumar first visited the residence of Vashishtha Narain Singh, one of his closest political associates and a senior JD(U) leader.

During the brief meeting, which lasted around 10 minutes, Nitish enquired about Singh’s health and exchanged pleasantries before leaving.

Vashishtha Narain Singh has played a crucial role in the growth of the JD(U).

He served as the party’s state president for a long period and was later appointed national vice-president by Nitish Kumar.

He also served as a minister in the government led by Lalu Prasad Yadav and was sent to the Rajya Sabha by Nitish Kumar.

However, owing to age and health concerns, he currently holds no organizational position and is not a member of any legislative body.

Political observers view the meeting as an important gesture by Nitish Kumar.

Discussions had earlier emerged within the party regarding the political future of Vashishtha Narain Singh’s son, Sonu Singh.

His name was reportedly considered during elections for vacant Legislative Council seats, but a consensus could not be reached.

The issue gained further attention after former MP Anand Mohan Singh met Vashishtha Narain Singh and publicly remarked that the senior leader was being sidelined within the party.

Against this backdrop, Nitish Kumar’s visit is being interpreted by many as an effort to reassure one of his most trusted associates and address perceptions of neglect.

After meeting Vashishtha Narain Singh, Nitish Kumar visited the JD(U) state office in Patna, where he interacted with party leaders and workers present at the headquarters.

He spent more than 10 minutes at the office before returning to his residence.

Although no official announcement was made during either visit, Nitish Kumar’s active public engagements have fueled speculation about possible organisational changes or political strategies ahead of future electoral and party activities.

–IANS

ajk/rad