Nitish Kumar’s Son Set for Bihar Politics?

In Indian regional politics, dynastic succession is almost a norm. The founder of a regional party typically becomes the Chief Minister, and his son is usually groomed to take over. Be it Telangana’s KCR paving the way for KTR, or Andhra Pradesh’s Chandrababu Naidu prepping Lokesh — the story is quite the same across states.

KTR has already served twice as a minister, and Lokesh is actively involved in politics. In Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin succeeded his father Karunanidhi. In Odisha, Naveen Patnaik took over the reins from his father Biju Patnaik. The pattern is evident and now, a similar buzz is growing louder in Bihar.

Reports suggest that Bihar CM Nitish Kumar is preparing to bring his son Nishant Kumar into active politics. Though speculation began last year, it has intensified ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. In recent public appearances, Nishant has been seen alongside his father, signaling a likely political debut.

JD(U) leaders, including MLA Vinay Chaudhary, have demanded that Nishant be fielded in the upcoming polls. Minister Jama Khan also endorsed the idea, praising Nishant’s understanding of politics and his potential to inspire the youth. Party sources claim this issue may be officially discussed in the upcoming JD(U) legislature party meetings.

Nishant Kumar, aged 38, is the only son of Nitish Kumar and his late wife Manju Singh. Until recently, he had stayed away from the public eye, politics, and even social media. A graduate in engineering from Birla Institute of Technology, Nishant was once vocal about his lack of political ambition and preference for a spiritual path.

However, the narrative seems to be shifting.

Now, there is pressure from party leaders to have him contest from the Harnaut constituency in Nalanda district — a stronghold of JD(U). This seat holds symbolic value: Nitish Kumar himself began his political journey from Harnaut. Currently, Harinarayan Singh, a three-time MLA, represents the constituency for JD(U). The discussions indicate that Nishant could be fielded here if the party decides to initiate his political career.

Interestingly, back in 2015, Nishant made headlines for attending his father’s swearing-in ceremony but stated clearly that he had no intention of joining politics. He had expressed a desire to follow a spiritual path rather than a political one.

But now, with consistent appearances alongside his father and growing pressure within the party, it appears that Nishant is ready to walk the political path.

This move has also raised eyebrows since Nitish Kumar, once known for opposing dynastic politics, may now be preparing to hand over the reins to his son — a complete reversal of his earlier stance.