The call for awarding Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, has triggered an unusual stir in the political landscape of Bihar and beyond. The proposal, initially made by Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi, has elicited support not only from unexpected quarters within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) but also from estranged members of political rivals, reflecting the nuanced alliances and personal loyalties in the state’s politics.

The controversy began when KC Tyagi, a veteran JD(U) leader and former Member of Parliament, wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi recommending that Nitish Kumar be conferred the Bharat Ratna. In his letter, Tyagi described the longest-serving Bihar CM as a “precious gem” of the socialist movement, praising his decades-long contribution to state and national politics. Tyagi highlighted Kumar’s role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of Bihar and his dedication to public service as reasons for considering him for the nation’s highest civilian award.

However, the proposal immediately created ripples within JD(U). The party distanced itself from Tyagi’s letter, asserting that it was the personal opinion of the former MP and did not reflect the official stance or ideology of the party. A JD(U) spokesperson said, “KC Tyagi has made several statements in the past that reflect his personal views. This proposal is not in line with the party’s official policy or ideology, and JD(U) will not take an official position on the matter at this stage.” This distancing was seen by political observers as a tactical move to prevent internal and external friction, given the sensitivity surrounding state politics after the November assembly elections.

Despite JD(U)’s cautious stance, several prominent NDA leaders quickly came out in support of Tyagi’s call. Chirag Paswan, Union Minister and leader of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or LJP(RV), praised Nitish Kumar for his two decades of leadership in Bihar. He said, “The way Bihar has progressed over the last two decades under the leadership of the current Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ji, he is certainly deserving of this honour. However, I believe that in India, the Bharat Ratna is not awarded based on demands or personal wishes; there is a proper process behind it, and those who meet the criteria will receive it.”

Paswan’s support was particularly noteworthy given his history as a vocal critic of JD(U) and its leadership, especially during the turbulent alliance politics of the past decade. Another LJP(RV) MLA, Raju Tiwari, echoed Paswan’s sentiment, describing Nitish Kumar as a “distinguished leader, a rare one,” and welcomed the proposal. Such endorsements from a former critic underscored the respect Kumar commands across political lines in Bihar, even among former rivals.

Bihar Assembly Speaker Dr Prem Kumar also lent his voice to the chorus, emphasizing Nitish Kumar’s pivotal role in the development of both the state and the country. “Nitish Kumar has played a crucial role in Bihar’s governance and policy development. His contributions deserve recognition,” he said, reinforcing the perception of Kumar as a leader whose influence extends beyond partisan politics.

Yet, the proposal took an unexpected turn when Tej Pratap Yadav, the estranged son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, weighed in. Tej Pratap, who heads the Janshakti Janta Dal (JJD), suggested that if Nitish Kumar were to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, then Lalu Prasad Yadav should also receive it. “Lalu Prasad Yadav should also be awarded the Bharat Ratna. My father and Nitish Kumar were like brothers. If people are saying Nitish Kumar should receive it, then give it to my father too,” Tej Pratap said, framing the suggestion as a call to recognize the contributions of both leaders equally. His statement introduced a politically charged angle, linking the recognition of Nitish Kumar with acknowledgment of Lalu’s historical role in Bihar politics.

KC Tyagi, when approached for comment, highlighted Nitish Kumar’s foundational role in the NDA. He also referenced the precedent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi having conferred the Bharat Ratna on leaders such as the late Chaudhary Charan Singh and late Karpoori Thakur, both of whom were key regional figures. Tyagi emphasized that Nitish Kumar’s long-standing service and leadership within JD(U) and NDA made him a deserving candidate for such recognition. “Nitish ji has been with JD(U) since its inception and was among the founding members of NDA. His contributions have been substantial, and recognition at the national level is warranted,” Tyagi told ANI.

Political analysts suggest that the unusual backing for Nitish Kumar, including endorsements from former critics and estranged political scions, illustrates the complex interplay of respect, loyalty, and strategic considerations in Bihar politics. While JD(U) sought to downplay the letter as Tyagi’s personal opinion, the public support from NDA allies like Chirag Paswan and Raju Tiwari reinforces Kumar’s stature as a veteran leader whose influence transcends narrow party lines.

The controversy also highlights the nuanced dynamics between JD(U) and its NDA partners, where personal admiration and historical ties sometimes intersect with political strategy. Paswan’s support, in particular, indicates an acknowledgment of Kumar’s administrative achievements, despite past political disagreements, while Tej Pratap’s twist underscores the continuing relevance of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s legacy in Bihar’s political discourse.

Observers note that the process of awarding the Bharat Ratna involves careful consideration by the Prime Minister and the President of India, with formal recommendations subject to scrutiny. While Tyagi’s letter and the subsequent endorsements may generate public and media attention, any decision would follow constitutional and procedural norms, rather than political advocacy alone.

Bihar has witnessed significant political turbulence in recent years, with the assembly elections in November 2025 consolidating Nitish Kumar’s position while simultaneously highlighting the fragile nature of alliances. The Bharat Ratna proposal, although largely symbolic at this stage, has brought Bihar’s leadership into the national spotlight and opened up discussions about recognition of regional leaders who have had long and sustained political careers.

The episode also underscores the continued relevance of historical figures like Lalu Prasad Yadav in the political imagination of Bihar. Tej Pratap Yadav’s call to award the Bharat Ratna to both his father and Nitish Kumar reflects not only familial loyalty but also an effort to link contemporary recognition with the state’s political heritage. Analysts believe that such interventions, while symbolic, can influence public perception and highlight unresolved debates over leadership, legacy, and governance in Bihar.

In conclusion, the proposal to confer the Bharat Ratna on Nitish Kumar has become more than a question of a civilian award—it is now a reflection of Bihar’s intricate political fabric. The mixture of unexpected endorsements, strategic distancing by JD(U), and Tej Pratap Yadav’s conditional support illustrates how personal respect, party politics, and historical alliances converge in shaping political narratives. Whether the proposal gains traction at the national level remains uncertain, but it has undeniably sparked conversations that bridge partisan divides and highlight the complex legacy of leadership in Bihar.

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