In a development that adds fuel to the speculations surrounding the potential breakup of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar, Union Minister Giriraj Singh of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) asserted that his party's doors are always 'closed' for Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Responding to queries from reporters, Singh clarified that he would stand by the decisions of his party's high command regarding the induction of the Janata Dal (United) into the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) alliance.

"Our doors are always closed (Humare darwaje to sada band band hain), but the party is foremost and I am only a worker of the party," said Giriraj Singh when asked about the possibility of Nitish Kumar joining the BJP. Singh also emphasized that the party would only consider Nitish Kumar's membership if he actively sought it.

This statement comes in contrast to earlier remarks made by senior BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi, who had indicated that doors could be opened if needed, hinting at the possibility of a revival in ties between Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) and the BJP. However, Sushil Modi clarified that no door is permanently closed in politics, emphasizing the need to keep a vigilant eye on developments.

Meanwhile, food processing industries minister and Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP) chief Pashupati Kumar Paras urged patience, stating that the situation in Bihar's political landscape would become clearer in the coming days. Paras emphasized that time holds more power than individuals in influencing political outcomes.

The potential alliance breakdown between the JD(U) and RJD has also been hinted at by other NDA leaders, including former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi. Nitish Kumar's departure from the Mahagathbandhan would not only deal a severe blow to the ruling alliance in Bihar but also impact the opposition INDIA bloc, which was formed to challenge the BJP-led central government at the national level.

If Nitish Kumar does defect, it will be the fourth time he has switched sides. Presently, the Bihar Assembly consists of 243 members, with the RJD holding 79 MLAs, followed by 78 from the BJP, 45 from the JD(U), 19 from the Congress, 12 from the CPI (M-L), and two each from the CPI(M) and CPI. The Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) has four seats, while the AIMIM holds one seat, and there is also one independent legislator.

It is noteworthy that Nitish Kumar, after breaking away from the BJP in 2022, took the initiative to unite opposition forces to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling party in the national elections. He hosted the first meeting of opposition parties in Patna, fueling expectations that he would become the coalition's convenor.