Nitish keeps allies on the edge as parleys continue

As political uncertainty over the future of ruling grand alliance in Bihar continued amid strong indications of chief minister Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) once again joining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leaders on Saturday got into a huddle to take stock of the situation and chalk out a future course of action, if indeed the speculation came true.

- Anirban Guha Roy

The Congress, which is also part of the Mahagathbandhan government in Bihar, said it was waiting for clarity on the fast-changing political situation in the state, though it expressed hope that Kumar will continue as a key partner in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc.

Senior RJD leader and Rajya Sabha member Manoj Jha, who also attended a two-hour-long meeting of party leaders and legislators at the 10 Circular Road residence of former chief minister Rabri Devi in Patna, said the legislators unanimously authorised RJD chief Lalu Prasad to take all decisions on the political situation prevailing in the state.

"There were discussions on the present political situation in the state and country. It was very positive. All MLAs have authorised the RJD chief to take any decision in the context of the evolving political situation in the state," Jha told reporters.